Pa Edwin Clark’s Family Reveals His Final Words Before Passing

The family of Pa Edwin Clark, the revered South-South leader and elder statesman, has disclosed his final words before he passed away at the age of 97 on Monday night. According to his family, his last statement was, “I am a Nigerian, I love Nigeria, Nigeria is my country, I am proud to be a Nigerian.”

Pa Clark, a vocal advocate for justice and equity, passed away at DIFF Medical Centre, Abuja, around 11:45 p.m., just months before his 98th birthday in May 2025. His passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, among others.

The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), which Clark led, have also paid tribute to his immense contributions to the struggle for regional autonomy and national unity. His first child, Mrs. Rebecca Clark-Okorodudu, and PANDEF National Chairman, Amb. Godknows Igali, urged his followers to continue his fight for restructuring and national progress.

Clark had made it clear in his final days that he did not wish to be mourned but celebrated. He instructed that guests visiting his residence should be welcomed with food and drinks. Those close to him revealed that he gave these instructions last Friday before he lost the ability to speak and was rushed to the hospital due to critical health complications.

President Tinubu described Clark as a courageous leader who championed the rights of the Niger Delta and upheld national unity. He acknowledged Clark’s unwavering dedication to justice, equity, and true federalism. Former President Obasanjo lamented the loss of yet another national icon, emphasizing Clark’s lifelong service as a lawyer, administrator, and political leader.

Former President Jonathan regarded Clark as a father figure who tirelessly worked for Nigeria’s unity, while former President Buhari called him an “iconic statesman” who left an indelible mark on the nation. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar referred to him as a “Trojan war horse” in Nigeria’s struggle for independence and nation-building.

Governors across the country, particularly in the South-South, have expressed their sorrow, with Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri describing Clark as an “irrepressible voice” for the Ijaw nation. Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori hailed him as a fearless freedom fighter who stood for fairness and justice. The Bayelsa government has also directed all flags in the state to fly at half-mast for three days in honor of the late nationalist.