PANDEF Honours Edwin Clark One Year After, Celebrates His Enduring Legacy

By Wilson Macaulay

Kiagbodo 

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) on Monday paid a glowing tribute to elder statesman and nationalist, Edwin Clark, marking one year since his passing and celebrating his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s unity, justice, and development.

In a solemn message signed by the National Chairman of PANDEF, Godknows Igali, the organisation described the late nationalist as a father, leader, and national icon whose life was devoted to the pursuit of truth, fairness, and national harmony.

According to PANDEF, the memories of the late  Chief DR Edwin Clark OFR remain fresh, noting that his passing after 98 years of impactful service to the nation continues to resonate deeply across Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta and the South-South geopolitical zone.

The group recalled that the late elder  statesman dedicated his life to building a just and united Nigeria, emphasizing that his final words, “I am a Nigerian, I love Nigeria,” reflected his unwavering patriotism and lifelong commitment to national unity.

PANDEF described Late  Chief Clark as a fearless advocate for the rights and development of the Niger Delta people, whose voice consistently championed equity, justice, and national inclusion.

The organisation noted that the late nationalist played a transformative role in promoting the unity, solidarity, and national relevance of the Niger Delta region, stressing that his contributions would continue to inspire generations to come.

“He was a game changer whose courage resonated far and wide. His voice remained firm, astute, and unwavering until the end,” the statement read.

The forum further praised Clark’s exceptional leadership qualities, describing him as a courageous figure whose dedication to national development and regional progress earned him widespread respect across Nigeria.

PANDEF expressed gratitude that Clark’s vision for justice, fairness, and development remains alive, assuring that his ideals would not be allowed to fade.

The group emphasized that his legacy will  continue  to serve as a guiding light for leaders and citizens alike, particularly in the ongoing quest for equity and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the values and principles championed by the late elder statesman, including national unity, regional development, and good governance.

As part of activities marking the first anniversary of his passing, a special memorial service was held at Edwin Clark University, founded by the late nationalist.

During the ceremony, family members, associates, political leaders, and admirers gathered to honour his life and contributions, celebrating what PANDEF described as a legacy of service, courage, and patriotism.

Igali the National Chairman of  PABDEF prayed for the peaceful repose of the elder statesman, fondly referred to as “Gogorogo,” and he urged Nigerians to continue to uphold the ideals for which he stood.

PANDEF concluded that even in death, Clark’s presence remains powerful, noting that his lifelong struggle for justice, unity, and national progress continues to shape public discourse and inspire advocacy across the country.

The forum maintained that the late leader’s contributions to nation-building and regional development have secured him an enduring place in Nigeria’s history.