The Urhobo Renaissance Society (URS), an organization representing Urhobo professionals and intellectuals, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a revered elder statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). Chief Clark, a prominent advocate for equity, good governance, and resource control in Nigeria, died on Monday, February 17, 2025.
In a statement signed by URS President, Prof. Hope Eghagha and General Secretary, Dr. John Uwa, the society highlighted Clark’s lifelong dedication to the national discourse on federalism and fiscal democracy. They described him as a man whose unwavering commitment to justice and fairness left an indelible mark on the Niger Delta, Delta State, and Nigeria at large.
The URS paid tribute to Chief Clark’s unique ability to embrace both his Ijaw and Urhobo heritage, a testament to his inclusive vision for unity among diverse ethnic groups. His autobiography, Brutally Frank, remains a testament to his wisdom, generosity of spirit, and steadfast vision for a better Nigeria.
Describing him as a shining example of selfless leadership, URS called for continued engagement with his works and ideologies as a way to honour his legacy. The society encouraged his friends, associates, and family to find solace in the knowledge that his advocacy for true federalism would remain a lasting influence on Nigerian governance.
The statement reads: “We, the teaming members of Urhobo Renaissance Society (URS), an umbrella organization of Urhobo Professionals and Intellectuals, are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our beloved elder statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF)—Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON, who dedicated his life to championing the fight for equity, good governance, the national question, resource control and fiscal democracy in Nigeria, from when he became a public figure in the 1960s, to Monday, 17th February 2025 when his death was announced. His tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to creating a better Nigeria have left an indelible mark on our nation, Niger Delta, Delta State, Ijaw and Urhobo. We are also particularly bereaved because Pa Edwin Clark was unambiguous about the duality of his ethnicity by identifying as both Ijaw and Urhobo of Delta State.
“We remember his remarkable life, his wisdom, his generosity of spirit and resoluteness of vision for Nigeria which are so very well-articulated in his autobiography titled Brutally Frank. He was a shining example of selfless leadership, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians and Africans. Our thoughts and prayers are with the nation, his associates, his family, loved ones, and all those who were touched by his extraordinary life.
“Fellow country men and women, we use this moment of grieving to advocate the honor of his memory through continuous engagement with his works and ideologies for a more just and equitable society. We admonish his friends, associates and family to find comfort in the knowledge that his unwavering advocacy for true federalism will never be forgotten or extinguished.”
URS also extended heartfelt sympathies to Clark’s family and loved ones, praying for strength and peace for them during this difficult time. They emphasized that his efforts towards a just and equitable society would never be forgotten.
Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy as a champion of justice, equity, and national unity will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians and Africans.