Nigerians on Tuesday woke up to the sad news of the death of one of its elder statesmen Edwin Clark. 

His family said Clark died on Monday. They called for “prayers at this time” and said other details about his passage would “be announced later”.

A fiery advocate for the country’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, Clark who died at 97, leaves a legacy of sacrifice, leadership, and dedication to the fight for justice and equity in the country.

Coming just days after another nationalist and elder statesman Ayo Adebanjo died, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader will be sorely missed. A passionate advocate for restructuring, Clark dedicated his life to fighting for marginalised people and equity for the country’s diverse ethnic nationalities.

His comments on several national issues like restructuring, constitutional reforms, and rights of Niger Delta people among others will continue to re-echo in the minds of Nigerians even after his death.

READ ALSO: ‘He Spoke For Niger Delta,’ Tinubu, Oborevwori Mourn PANDEF’s Edwin Clark

This is a video compilation of his thoughts on some national issues: 

A Restructuring Advocate

If there is one thing Clark was known for apart from his advocacy for the Niger Delta region, it was his passion for the restructuring of the country.

On many occasions, he argued for an amendment to the Constitution. This, he believed, was essential to a more balanced nation, putting every region into consideration.

While there have been many reports on restructuring, Clark was unequivocal in his call for the implementation of such reports.

The Delta-born nationalist never minced words about the need for a restructured country to better cater to the diverse interests in the country.

Believer of a Secured Nigeria

Clark’s advocacy for a restructured Nigeria was rooted in his desire for a more secure country.

With a myriad of security issues facing Africa’s most populous nation including banditry, kidnapping, crude oil theft, and other sundry crimes, the elder statesman never failed to call the authorities’ attention to these issues.

He argued that with the resources at their disposal, governors can do better in securing their states.

Clark: A Fearless Voice of the Niger Delta

As the PANDEF leader, the Niger Delta region’s struggles with insecurity, environmental degradation, and perceived marginalisation were recurring themes during Clark’s sojourn.

He believed that these issues had fuelled unrest and conflicts in the area, thus the need for fairness and equity in the region.

His death, no doubt, leaves a void in the advocacy for equity for Nigeria’s oil-bearing states.

A Nationalist At 90

Expectedly, when the former Federal Commissioner for Information marked his 90th birthday seven years ago, it was a perfect opportunity to celebrate the colossus.

The event which was attended by leaders across the country was a fitting reminder of what the late Clark stood for – a resource control advocate, a champion of restructuring and equity and fairness.

A Champion for a United Nigeria

The South-South leader was also at the forefront of the need for a peaceful and united Nigeria.

Farewell to a Patriot

While the nation mourns the PANDEF chief, his death undoubtedly leaves a void in the region. But his legacies are etched in the annals of Nigeria’s history. Edwin Clark’s heroics will be remembered for years and continue to inspire generations.