Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a prominent South-South leader and former Federal Commissioner for Information, has died at the age of 97. Clark passed away on Monday night, February 17, 2025, as announced by his family in a statement signed by Prof. C.C. Clark.
Clark’s death comes just days after the passing of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96. A towering figure in Nigerian politics, Clark was a lawyer, administrator, nationalist, and freedom fighter who served in various capacities, including Commissioner for Education in the Mid-Western Region and Commissioner for Information at the federal level.
Throughout his career, Clark was a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta region, championing resource control, fiscal federalism, and regional development. He led several organizations, including the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), earning national recognition and respect across Nigeria’s geopolitical divides.
PANDEF described Clark’s passing as the fall of a “mighty Iroko tree,” highlighting his towering contributions to public service, politics, and community development over 75 years. His legacy as a champion of justice, equality, and human rights will continue to inspire future generations.
