Obasanjo Mourns Edwin Clark, Says Late PANDEF Leader Was Accomplished Politician

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow at the passing of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, who died at the age of 97. Obasanjo described Clark as an accomplished politician, community leader, frontline lawyer, and seasoned economist.

In a condolence message issued in Abeokuta, Obasanjo reflected on the late leader’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria, particularly as the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). He mourned the loss of Clark, which follows closely on the heels of the death of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the factional leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere.

Obasanjo noted that Clark’s death further depletes the ranks of Nigeria’s patriotic leadership at a time when the country is in dire need of their wisdom and experience. He described Clark as a passionate advocate for the improvement of conditions in the oil-bearing states, emphasizing his devotion to the well-being of his people.

Obasanjo also recalled Clark’s long and illustrious career, which included serving as Commissioner for Education and Finance in the former Midwestern State (1968-1974), as well as his role as the official spokesman of the Federal Government in 1975. He further highlighted Clark’s time in the Senate, where he was an advocate for minority rights, and his continued commitment to national development in his later years.

“Clark was a peace-loving, unassuming, and committed patriot who believed in democracy and participatory governance,” Obasanjo said, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s progress.

In his message, Obasanjo also remembered Clark’s involvement in the Committee for the Goodness of Nigeria (CGN), which he joined in 2021 to discuss issues of national unity, security, and economic revitalization. The former president emphasized that Clark’s contributions to the country’s political and social discourse were marked by courage and commitment to progressive ideals.

Obasanjo expressed gratitude that Clark lived a long, God-fearing life full of service to Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and transparency in public life. He extended condolences to the Clark family and prayed for the peaceful repose of the late leader’s soul.

“We pray the Good Lord to grant the soul of Chief Clark a peaceful rest and the Clark family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Obasanjo concluded.