From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The family of the late Edwin Clark, one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen and nationalist leaders, has officially announced the funeral programme to honour his remarkable life and legacy, in a build up to his burial.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja his first son, Penaowei Clark, noted that his father, who passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, was a founding father of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Southern and Middle Belt Forum.
He added that Pa Clark was widely recognised for his relentless advocacy for justice, equity, and the unity of Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s political and social landscape.
According to him, the funeral events will take place from Wednesday, May 7 through Sunday, May 18, 2025, and will include a series of memorial lectures, valedictory sessions, religious services, and cultural activities across multiple cities including Abuja, Yenagoa, Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kiagbodo in Delta State.
The programme will begin on May 7 with a Memorial Lecture and Tributes at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja at 11:00 AM, followed the next day by a Valedictory Session at the Senate Chambers of the National Assembly Complex, also in Abuja.
On Saturday, May 10, a wrestling contest will be held in Yenagoa, while a Service of Songs will take place at St. James’ Anglican Church in Abuja at 5:00 PM, followed by a Candlelight Memorial in Asokoro, Abuja, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM. The following day, May 11, a Service of Songs will be held at the Royal House of Grace International Church in Port Harcourt at 4:00 PM.
Monday, May 12, will feature a Commendation Service at the National Christian Centre in Abuja starting at 8:00 AM, alongside a simultaneous Valedictory Court Session at the High Court of Justice in Warri at 10:00 AM. Later that day, the body will be transported from Abuja to Yenagoa and Warri, where lying-in-state and commendation services will be held at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa and at a residence on Swamp Road, GRA, Warri. The body will then proceed to Kiagbodo Town in Delta State.
On Tuesday, May 13, the lying-in-state will continue at Edwin Clark University in Kiagbodo from 10:00 to 10:30 AM, followed by a Commendation Service and the Funeral Service at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Kiagbodo at 11:00 AM. The day will conclude with a reception, interment, and an all-night vigil beginning at 5:00 PM.
The funeral programme will culminate with a novelty football match on Saturday, May 17, between Team Clark (comprising Izon, Urhobo, and Itsekiri players) and the Rest of Nigeria at Mein Grammar School Field in Kiagbodo, starting at 4:00 PM. A Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday, May 18, to close the series of events.
Penaowei Clark stressed that the programme was organised in partnership with the Delta State Government, the Federal Government, PANDEF, and community leaders to ensure a befitting tribute to Chief Clark’s enduring influence.
In his address, he described his father not only as a national figure but also as a devoted family patriarch whose values continue to inspire his loved ones. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support and prayers from Nigerians and well-wishers since Chief Clark’s passing.