Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Monday joined several prominent dignitaries to honour the late Ijaw elder statesman, Pa Edwin Clark, during a lying-in-state and commendation service held in Yenagoa.
The solemn event brought together key Ijaw figures such as former Bayelsa Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson; President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba; and various traditional rulers, as they celebrated the life and contributions of Clark, who passed away on February 17, 2024, at the age of 97.
Jonathan praised Clark as a devoted leader who dedicated his life to public service. He urged Ijaw communities, stretching from Arogbo in Ondo State to Eastern Obolo in Akwa Ibom State, to uphold unity and inclusiveness in memory of Clark. He described the late leader as not only a symbol of the Ijaw nation but also a strong voice for the Niger Delta and other underrepresented groups.
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Governor Diri commended Clark’s lifelong commitment to justice and development and revealed that the state had formed a committee to explore ways of naming key streets and landmarks after him and other notable Ijaw figures, including Jonathan and Dickson, to ensure their legacies endure. Diri emphasized that the gathering was a celebration of a life marked by remarkable service and dedication to the Ijaw cause.
Senator Dickson described Clark as a national figure whose influence transcended ethnic lines, stating that his entire life was dedicated to championing the interests of his people.
INC President Okaba described Clark as a bold and principled defender of the oppressed, whose legacy goes beyond politics. He reminded attendees that Clark’s message of justice and fairness remains a guiding light for building a better Nigeria.
King Bubaraye Dakolo, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, said Clark’s advocacy for truth and equity would be remembered as one of the most powerful in Nigeria’s history.
Dr. Godknows Igali, National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), shared that in his final days, Clark called on the Ijaw people to remain united and steadfast.
Ijaw Youth Council President, Jonathan Lokpobiri, described Clark as a legendary figure in the Ijaw struggle and national development, noting that his firm beliefs and leadership would leave a lasting impact.
Clark’s eldest son, Pinaowei Clark, delivered the Bible reading from Ecclesiastes 3:1-6 during the ceremony.
Other notable attendees included Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and Dr. Fred Agbedi, who represents the Sagbama-Ekeremor Federal Constituency.
