By Akpokona Omafuaire

President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and his wife, Tobore, were among the dignitaries who paid tribute to the late elder statesman, Pa Edwin Clark, at his funeral service.

The service, held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, also saw the presence of Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi State).

Other attendees included the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, and his wife, Ezinne Catherine; former Governors Ifeanyi Okowa, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and Chief Rufus Ada George; as well as the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, among others.

Tributes to a Nationalist and Patriot

President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, expressed sadness over the passing of the nationalist and respected leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). He extended heartfelt condolences to the Clark family, the Ijaw nation, Delta State, and the country at large.

“Pa Clark was a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and social justice. He was a beacon of courage who spoke for the Niger Delta and the nation. His views on national issues were distinct and patriotic. He believed in a united Nigeria. As an astute politician, even his opponents never doubted his integrity,” Akume stated.

He further added, “History will always remember him as a patriot who fought valiantly for Nigeria’s unity. His service and dedication will continue to inspire us all.”

Jonathan: A Voice for Justice and Unity

Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Pa Clark as a great nationalist who lived with a commitment to human dignity.

“He was a staunch advocate for freedom and national pride. Pa Clark was more than a father and leader; he was an ambassador, an audacious voice for the voiceless, and a steadfast preacher of justice and minority rights,” Jonathan said.

He praised Clark’s role as a unifying force during periods of division, adding that his patriotism was rooted in love and principle rather than politics.

“Pa Clark critically examined Nigeria through a loving lens. He challenged, questioned, and proposed always to build, never to destroy,” Jonathan added.

Akpabio: A Pan-Nigerian and Pan-African Leader

Senate President Godswill Akpabio extolled Pa Clark’s legacy, describing him as a defender of the oppressed.

“Pa Clark was a pan-Nigerian and Pan-African who fought for all, including the minorities. He has left a legacy and a responsibility to his followers. He did well for Nigeria and for the Niger Delta. The Senate valued him, and his memory will remain a part of our national history,” Akpabio stated.

He highlighted Clark’s commitment to justice, noting that he stood tall when others compromised for convenience.

“He didn’t just hold office, he held values. He challenged injustice and reminded us that true patriotism is active, not passive. Silence in the face of injustice, he believed, was betrayal,” he added.

Oborevwori: Fearless and Vocal Advocate for Justice

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described Pa Clark as fearless, vocal, and assertive in speaking truth to power.

“Pa Clark lived a fulfilling life and will be remembered for his legacy and contributions to nation-building. He was a teacher, educator, politician, and astute public servant—an example of a life dedicated to service,” Oborevwori said.

He called for unity in the Niger Delta to continue Clark’s legacy, stressing the importance of solidarity for progress.

“When we allow division through personal sentiments, we hinder progress. Our Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, is one of us. We will continue to support you because that is how we can succeed as a nation,” he stated.

A Call for Integrity and National Unity

Earlier, the Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, Archbishop of Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, delivered a homily that referenced Proverbs 22:1: “A good name is better than riches.” He praised Pa Clark’s virtues, calling him a champion of integrity and a man of impeccable character.

The Archbishop acknowledged Clark’s selfless service and legal advocacy for the poor and vulnerable, describing him as a true voice for the Niger Delta. He emphasized that material wealth is secondary to a legacy of integrity and righteousness.

Rev. Odutemu further urged Nigerians to seek God’s kingdom and live righteously, quoting Matthew 6:33: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” He called for a return to the values of integrity and justice championed by the nation’s founding fathers.