A former two-term lawmaker at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Jude Idimogu, on Tuesday said that Nigeria and Niger-Delta had lost a rare star and courageous leader with the death of Chief Edwin Clark.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), died on Monday in Abuja at 97.
Reacting to Clark’s death, Idimogu, who represented Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II in the assembly between 2015 and 2023, said the elder statesman would be remembered for his courage and for speaking truth to power.
“This is a shock to me, but Chief Edwin Clark lived to the ripe age. My only regret is that Nigeria has lost a very courageous and fearless leader.
“He was a man that would always speak the truth, no matter whose horse is gored. He was bold enough to do that.
“Niger-Delta and Nigeria have lost a rare star. I just hope Nigerian leaders will listen to all he said while alive, especially about unity.
“We must remember him and his sacrifices for Nigeria. He fought for Nigeria, he lived and died for Nigeria.
“The best thing we can do for him is to remember all he preached as an elder stateman to move the country,” the former lawmaker said.
Idimogu, who prayed God to repose the soul of Clark, commiserated with the family, Niger-Delta and the country.
NAN reports that Clark was a former federal commissioner for information and prominent Ijaw leader.
A distinguished lawyer, activist, and politician, Clark was a formidable voice for the South-South region and the Ijaw ethnic nationality.
He founded PANDEF and co-led the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), advocating justice, equality, and human rights. (NAN)
