Wednesday, June 3, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Afenifere, Arewa mourn

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The Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, said Clark was passionate about Nigeria, just like the late  Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

Reacting, Mr Jare Ajayi, the National Publicity Secretary, Afenifere said: “Clark was  very deep and, of course, very fearless. He was a patriot par excellence. Nigeria meant so much to him.

“The issues that have to do with the people were of great concern to him. He will be greatly missed because he was a strong, influential voice.”

Ajayi, who conveyed the condolences of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, said Clark would forever be remembered for his contributions to the country.

“Pa Edwin Clark was an active player in the  Nigerian political scene ,even when he was very old he was still very active. He (Clark) never shied away from commenting or expressing his opinion on any issue of national importance.

“So, we, in Afenifere, will also miss him, just like we know that other people in the South-South, in particular, in Nigeria, as a whole, will miss him,” Afenifere spokesman said.

On its part, the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) described him as a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta.

Its President General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, in a statement, stated that the AYCF recognised that throughout his illustrious career, Clark served the country with distinction.

“From his time as Commissioner for Education in the Mid-Western Region to his tenure as Commissioner for Finance and Establishment in Bendel State, he demonstrated a commitment to public service and a passion for the development of his region.

“At the federal level, Chief Clark continued to make significant contributions to the political landscape of Nigeria.

“As Commissioner for Information and later as a Senator, he championed the cause of regional and national unity, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and constituents.”

The Arewa youth leader said that beyond Clark’s political career, he was a leading voice for regional and national unity.

He said Clark’s leadership of organisations such as the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the South-South Peoples Assembly and the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) showcased his dedication to the betterment of Nigeria as a whole.

“Chief Clark’s advocacy for resource control, fiscal federalism and the development of the Niger Delta region will be remembered as a legacy of his tireless efforts to improve the lives of his people and all Nigerians.

“The AYCF joins the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family, the people of Kiagbodo Town, and all Nigerians in mourning the loss of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.