Peter Obi urges Nigerian leaders to emulate Edwin Clark’s legacy for a better nation
Obi made this statement during the Commendation Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja on Monday, honoring the former Federal Commissioner for Information and founder of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
Obi, who flew back to Nigeria specifically to attend the event, emphasized that great Nigerians like Clark and the late Afenifere Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo should be celebrated for their contributions to the nation’s growth. He stressed that the failure to honor such statesmen partly explains the country’s current challenges.
“Pa Clark lived a life of service, sacrifice, courage, and truth—values that are rare in our country today. He fought for justice, equity, and the well-being of his people, standing for a better Nigeria until the very end. Adebanjo and Clark lived the kind of lives we need to emulate if we want a better Nigeria,” Obi said.
The Commendation Service, convened by Amb. Godknows Igali on behalf of PANDEF and Clark’s family, was held ahead of the late elder statesman’s May 13 burial in Kiagbodo, Delta State. Clark passed away on February 17 at the age of 97.
After the Abuja service, his body departed the Abuja International Airport for Yenagoa, followed by a lying-in-state and further commendation services at key locations, including:
Ijaw House, Yenagoa: 1:30–2:30 PM
Warri: 6:30–7:00 PM, at No. 5 Swamp Road, GRA
Leaders Should Address Poverty, Not Amass Wealth — Primate Anglican Communion
Delivering the homily at the service, the Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Communion and Bishop of Abuja, Most Revd. Dr. Henry Ndukuba, urged Nigerian leaders to shun excessive wealth acquisition and focus on addressing poverty in the land.
“Our leaders should not acquire unwanted wealth but address the suffering of the masses. Late Pa Clark fought for the downtrodden and for Nigeria’s unity even until his last days. Our leadership should emulate him by standing for the voiceless and ensuring that our resources are fully maximized for the people,” Ndukuba said.
The Primate commended Clark’s lifelong advocacy for the marginalized and his dedication to justice and equity in the Niger Delta. He noted that despite his status, Clark chose to fight for the emancipation of his people instead of enriching himself.
Dignitaries Pay Final Respects
The event drew a host of prominent figures, including:
Chief James Ibori, former Delta State Governor
Prince Uche Secondus, former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
Emeka Ihedioha, former Imo State Governor
Amb. Godknows Igali, PANDEF National Chairman
Obong Victor Attah, former Akwa Ibom State Governor
Senator Bassey Henshaw
Kingsley Kuku, High Chief Mike Loyibo, Inusa Tanko, and others
The gathering served as a testament to Clark’s enduring legacy as a voice for justice, equality, and the protection of marginalized communities in Nigeria.
