Renowned Niger Delta leader and elder statesman, Edwin Clark, passed away on Monday at the age of 97.
His death was confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday morning by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) also issued an official announcement, signed by its spokesperson, Obiuwevbi Ominimini.
The statement was jointly released by Professor College Clark of the Clark-Fuludu-Bakederemo family and Ambassador Dr. Godknows Igali, National Chairman of PANDEF.
Here are 10 key things to know about Edwin Clark:
- He was born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State.
- He began his education at African Church School in 1938 and later attended the Government Teachers Training College in Abraka.
- From 1961 to 1964, he studied Law at Holborn College in the United Kingdom.
- His political career began in 1953 when he was elected a councillor in Bomadi (now in Delta State).
- Over the years, Clark held several key positions, including:
- Commissioner for Education (Mid-Western Region, 1968-1971)
- Commissioner for Finance and Establishment (Bendel State, 1972-1975)
- Federal Commissioner for Information under General Yakubu Gowon (1975)
- As Commissioner for Education, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Mid-West Institute of Technology, which later became the University of Benin.
- Clark was a vocal advocate for the Niger Delta, championing causes such as better resource control, environmental protection, and economic development in the region.
- He was a key figure in the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Ijaw National Congress, working tirelessly for policies that fostered the growth of the Niger Delta.
- Clark founded Edwin Clark University in Kiagbodo, Delta State, to provide educational opportunities for young Nigerians.
- His influence on Nigerian politics and advocacy lasted for decades, and he remained a respected elder statesman until his passing on February 17, 2025.
