Late Chief Dr. E.K. Clark Was A Voice That Commanded Nationwide Attention — Michael Diden, National Chairman, DPV

By Wilson Macaulay

The leadership of the Delta Political Vanguard (DPV) on Monday, March 17, 2025, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Chief Dr. E.K. Clark, OFR, CON.

Speaking during the visit, Hon. Evang. Dr. Michael Diden, popularly known as Ejele, the National Chairman of the DPV, described the late Pa Clark as a voice that commanded nationwide attention.

According to Ejele, Pa Clark’s passing is a painful loss to the Niger Delta people in particular and Nigeria as a whole, given his unwavering dedication to the nation’s progress and development.

He further stated, "Pa Clark was a man of integrity who always supported what was right and condemned anything unjust. As members of the Delta Political Vanguard, we are his political children, and we are here to pay our respects and honor his legacy."

Ejele emphasized that Nigeria should immortalize the late Pa Clark, describing him as a true leader and a political pillar of the Niger Delta. He added that the Delta Political Vanguard would actively participate in the burial arrangements to honor the statesman appropriately.

Reflecting on Pa Clark’s influence, Ejele noted that every Governor of Delta State sought his blessing before assuming office, reinforcing his status as a political kingmaker. He maintained that the late elder statesman was a phenomenon whose impact resonated deeply within Delta State’s political landscape.

Also speaking, Hon. Chief Askia Ogieh, JP, the Deputy National Chairman of the DPV, described Pa Clark as a pragmatic leader. He stated, "Each time we approached him for the endorsement of our candidates, he never turned us down. He stood by us till the end and imparted invaluable wisdom that remains relevant to us today."

Elder Prof Collins College Clark the younger brother of Late Chief DR EK Clark prayed for the continuous success of the Delta Political Vanguard in all their endeavors.

In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Rebecca Clark Okorodudu, daughter of the late Pa Clark, expressed appreciation to the DPV members for their visit and support. She remarked that, at a certain stage in his life, her father moved beyond partisan politics to become a revered elder statesman who guided politicians across all party lines with wisdom and fairness.

She added, "My father was a man of truth until his last breath, and I am glad that the visit of the Delta Political Vanguard and the words of Dr. Michael Diden (Ejele) have reaffirmed that legacy."

Mrs. Okorodudu assured that the family would continue to uphold the values and principles that made Pa Clark a father figure to all.

Dignitaries present at the condolence visit included:

High Chief Barr. Mike Loyibo

Hon. Solomon Ahwinahwi, former member, House of Representatives

Hon. Barr. Evelyn Oboro, former member, House of Representatives

Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, member, Delta State House of Assembly

Hon. Barr. Trakiriwei Harry ThankGod, Delta State Commissioner for Youth

Hon. Akpo Abugo, Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Social Advocacy

Many other prominent leaders and stakeholders too numerous to be mentioned were also present.