The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to immortalize the late elder statesman and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark, by naming a national monument after him.
During its plenary session on Wednesday, the upper legislative chamber also resolved to send a delegation to condole with his family and participate in his funeral rites. The decision underscores Clark’s contributions to national unity, democracy, and the advancement of the Niger Delta region.
The nonagenarian and respected South-South leader passed away on Monday at the age of 97. His family officially announced his demise on Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political figures, activists, and Nigerians who recognized his role as a fearless advocate for justice and equity.
A motion titled, “The Demise of Senator (Chief) Edwin K. Clark, OFR, CON (May 25, 1927 – February 17, 2025),” sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (APC-Delta South) and co-sponsored by 16 other lawmakers from the South-South, set the stage for the Senate’s resolutions.
Thomas, while moving the motion, described Clark as a nationalist, legal luminary, administrator, philanthropist, and tireless champion of the Niger Delta cause.
Other senators, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, extolled Clark’s legacy, emphasizing his relentless advocacy for the rights of marginalised groups and his commitment to national cohesion.
“Even in his 90s, his voice carried weight. His passion for Nigeria was unmistakable whenever he spoke,” Akpabio noted.
Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro (PDP-Benue South), lamented Clark’s passing, stating that “Nigeria lost a rare statesman at a time when his wisdom was most needed.”
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa West) hailed him as an iconic leader, while Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia South) acknowledged his firm stance on justice for the underprivileged.
Senator Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi Central) lauded Clark’s role in fostering unity across ethnic divides. “He was a true bridge-builder who worked tirelessly for national harmony,” he remarked.
Clark, a prominent voice in Nigeria’s political landscape, began his journey in public service in 1953 as a councillor in Bomadi. He was a staunch member of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and played a crucial role in the 1966 constitutional conference, where he advocated for Nigerian unity.
The Senate’s call for his immortalization signals a recognition of his indelible mark on Nigeria’s political history and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.