By Odey Otunu
Kiagbodo, Delta State – February 17, 2025
Elder statesman and prominent Niger Delta leader, Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has passed away at the age of 97. Clark, a former Minister of Finance and the convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), died on Monday, February 17, 2025.
The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo, Delta State, confirmed his passing in a statement:
“The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo of Delta State wishes to announce the passing of Chief Dr. Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday 17th February 2025. The family appreciates your prayers at this time.”
Chief Edwin Clark was widely recognized for his relentless advocacy for good governance, resource control, and equity, particularly for the people of the Niger Delta. His influence stretched beyond regional politics, as he was an outspoken voice on national issues, consistently calling for fairness in Nigeria’s governance structure.
His death comes just days after the passing of another elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, leader of Afenifere, the Pan-Yoruba sociopolitical group. Like Adebanjo, Clark was a firm believer in justice and equity, championing a Nigeria where all ethnic groups had a fair stake in governance.
Clark’s legacy as a fearless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta people and his contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape will be remembered for generations.
Details of his burial arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.