Grief as Senators Godswill Akpabio, David Mark mourn death of Edwin Clark, Ayo Adebanjo

BY PATRICK WEMAMBU

Condolences have continued to flow as the Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator David Mark mourn the death of Elder Statesmen, Chief Edwin Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo who passed away recently at the ripe ages of 97 and 96, respectively.

Emotionally distressed, the Senate President in a deeply felt condolence message, yesterday at the National Assembly described Chief Clark’s demise as a monumental loss to the Niger Delta particularly and Nigeria in general.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, a renowned statesman, nationalist, and Ijaw leader. His dedication to Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in the hearts of those who knew him. As a nation, we have lost a true patriot and a champion of justice,” he said.

Noting that at 97 years old, Chief Clark stood as a bridge between generation – his life a testament to resilience, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the promise of Nigeria, Senator Akpabio reminisced that from his early days as a councillor, to his service as a federal minister, to his revered role as a political father and advisor to President Goodluck Jonathan, Clark was not just a leader – he was a moral compass, reminding all of the responsibility that comes with governance.

Just as he was also a warrior for the Niger Delta, a fearless advocate for equity and resource control, and an unrelenting defender of the oppressed, the late Ijaw leader was said to be reputed to speaking truth to power. This is even when it was inconvenient, because he understood that leadership is not about comfort but about duty.

The Senate President griefed further; “Pa Clark’s remarkable life was marked by strength and an undying commitment to the unity of this country. His voice, though now silenced, will echo in the annals of our history, urging us always toward justice, fairness, and national cohesion.”

Beyond his national impact, Akpabio remembered with deep gratitude the unwavering support of the deceased for him, especially when he visited to seek his blessing and endorsement in the bid for the Senate Presidency. His counsel was adjudged to always be rooted in wisdom, his encouragement a reflection of his deep commitment to responsible leadership.

“In a moment now filled with sorrowful reflection, I recall that just a week before his passing, I sent emissaries to check on him, never imagining that it would be the last time we would reach out to him in this world. I did not know that he was preparing for a greater journey, leaving behind the toils of this earth for the eternal peace of the better world beyond,” Senator Akpabio lamented.

In a similar vein, Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has condoled over the demise of the two elder statesmen and patriots.

He commiserated; “Their demise marks the end of an era thus, creating a void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape…Both elder statesmen were united in their quest for an egalitarian society, free from oppression and marginalization.”

Characterizing Clark and Adebanjo as the ‘last of the conscience of the nation, who tirelessly fought for a progressive Nigeria of equal opportunities for all,’ the erstwhile NASS presiding officer viewed the exit of the two titans as painful and regrettable. This is especially at a time when Nigeria needs men of good conscience and valour to address the numerous challenges bedeviling the nation.

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However, Senator Mark – speaking through his media adviser, Paul Mumeh – noted that Clark and Adebanjo may not have seen a Nigeria of their dreams but they have laid a solid foundation for future growth and development.

The statement urged the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu government to immortalize Clark and Adebanjo for their selfless services and contributions to Nigeria.

Morever, it was hoped that the ideals of patriotism, equal opportunities, unity, peace and progress which the departed elder statesmen advocated will inspire Nigeria’s future growth. The former Senate boss also comforted the immediate families, governments, and people of Ogun and Delta States just as he encouraged them to find solace in the credible legacies left behind by the two elder statesmen.