The Nigerian Senate has urged the federal government to immortalize the late Edwin Clark by naming a national monument after him. Clark, a prominent Niger Delta leader and nationalist, passed away at 97. The Senate also resolved to send a delegation to condole with his family and Delta State.
The Nigerian Senate has urged the federal government to honor the late Edwin Clark by naming a national monument after him. Clark, a former commissioner in Yakubu Gowon’s administration and a vocal advocate for the Niger Delta, passed away on Monday at the age of 97.
During a plenary session on Wednesday, lawmakers paid tribute to the elder statesman, acknowledging his significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape. A motion to immortalize Clark was moved by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, who represents Delta South, and was co-sponsored by 16 other senators from the South-South region.
Thomas praised Clark as a nationalist, accomplished lawyer, and dedicated champion of Niger Delta rights. He highlighted Clark’s early education in Effurun, Okrika, and Afugbene, as well as his studies in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a law degree.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also recognized Clark’s enduring influence, noting that he played a key role in uniting different ethnic groups across Nigeria. Akpabio emphasized that even in his later years, Clark’s voice remained strong and impactful in national discussions.
Following the tributes, the Senate observed a minute of silence in his honor. The lawmakers also resolved to send a delegation to convey their condolences to his family, the government of Delta State, and his wider community. Additionally, the Senate pledged to participate in his burial arrangements as a mark of respect for his lifelong service to the nation.
