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Gowon eulogises Edwin Clark as great bridge builder post civil war
**Tinubu describes him as the iroko of the South South, the Eagle of the nation
Former Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Dr. Yakubu Gowon has described Chief Edwin Clark as one of the greatest Nigerians that made effort to bring about genuine reconcilliation between the North and South after the Nigerian Civil War.
Speaking as Chairman at the programme of the public presentation of the book, “Brutally Frank’ by Chief Edwin.
Chief Clark, he said as erstwhile Commissioner for Education in the Mid-West State, had
gone ahead without pressure to initiate reconciliation with the war ravaged states of the East Central and its people at the time.
“As a matter of fact, he went to the extent of using his first daughter, now Mrs. Rebecca Okorodudu, who was a teenager in one of the best schools in Mid-West at the time as a kind of guinea pig, moving her to Queen’s School, Enugu, which had great impact from the unfortunate years of conflict
The chairman explained that Clark had also extended a hand of solidarity to the northern States by sending hundreds of science teachers to various parts of the northern States from the Mid-West.
“He also attracted some of their young persons and gave them places in the best schools in his home state.
According to him, that was why he had appointed Clark for the job of information Minister at that time when the country needed to show warmness and empathy for one another as a people.
“He did the same for the East-Central States, sending help to the University and other institutions in the war affected areas.”
“The period in which Nigeria emerged from its most challenging political turmoil was one that needed great dexterity and empathy in the arduous task of reconciliation, rehabilitation, reintegration, reconstruction and rebuilding our bonds of oneness. “I had an exceptional cabinet of some of the pioneers and best personalities that the country ever produced.
“Besides personalities like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, Dapa Biriye, Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas, SAN and those of my military constituency such as Admiral Akinwale Wey, Governors and Administrator, Ukpabi Asika, there was also the very courageous and resourceful communicator, Chief Anthony Enahoro from the Mid-West and my team of dedicated civil servants.
“For those who have read Nigerian history, it was Enahoro who in 1953 moved the motion for Nigerian independence and remained one of the most respected voices on the need for the rebuilding of Nigeria.
“Enahoro served as Federal Commissioner (i.e. Minister) of Information in our government. However, he opted to exit because of other commitments and there was a search for a qualified and equally passionate Nigerian.
“This was what took us back to the Mid-West State and brought Edwin Kiagbodo Clark to enter the big shoes left by Enahoro.
“The need to fill in the void created by Chief Enahoro exit was what gave E.K. the job of Minister in the government which I headed.
“He became my confidant and the voice of the government, fearlessly defending the government and projecting its image.
“I found comfort in discussing government and other issues with clark, most amicably at all times.
“However, considering his strong personality, there were times that he would vehemently disagree with his colleagues Commissioners and Military Officers and worked hard to convince them on why his own position is better than theirs and any other.
“He was helpful not only in explaining government policies and programmes and in the effort to rebuild our unity in the country but I found him useful in our vision of building a common identity within the West Africa sub-region.
“I therefore found his personality and persuasive skill an asset in visiting various West African countries to canvass the need for us to have a common sub-regional body which today is known as ECOWAS
According to him,the book, “Brutally Frank”, is a very useful chronicle of what had transpired in Nigeria during his lifetime of service.
He expressed the hope that the younger generations will be better informed on their experiences that have brought the country to what it is today, on which President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu now represents the centre of common aspirations of peace, unity and progress.
President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) senator George Akume described Clark as a very fine man and an extra ordinary citizen.
“It is stated that there is no need introducing a man who needs no introduction, he is a household name throughout this country
Edwin Clark, the President respects your person, he recognizes the fact that you are part of the Nigerian Legend, you are the Iroko of the South South, the Eagle of the nation.
“You believe in the unity of this country as has been demonstrated in your book personally written by you and one wouldn’t be surprised because your boss our Father general gowon believed so much in the unity of this country and its territorial integrity.
The event that took place at the International Conferecmnce Center, Abuja, was graced by Eminent and distinguished Elder Statesmen present, Honourable Members of the National Assembly, Royal Majesties, Royal Highnesses and other traditional authorities and religious leaders.
Former President Goodluck Johnathan, the wife of the former military head of State Sani Abacha and Governors including Bala Muhammed of Bauchi, Governors from all the South South States and others. The Ooni of Ife, Emir of Kano, Tor Tiv, Atta Igala and traditional leaders form the south South.
The Senate on Thursday paid tribute to Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the late nationalist, political activist, and staunch advocate for democracy, who passed away at the age of 96.
The emotional session, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, underscored Adebanjo’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution and his unwavering stance on justice, fairness, and good governance.
The session began with Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East) moving a motion to honor Adebanjo’s legacy. Acknowledging the urgency and importance of the motion, the Senate President granted an exception to the rule limiting urgent motions to one per sitting, allowing the Senate to fully recognize the late statesman’s achievements.
The Ogun senator while presenting his motion indicated that Adebanjo was born on February 10, 1928, in Isoye Ogo, Ogun State, Adding that his journey from journalism to law led him to become a disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a key figure in Nigeria’s early political movements.
His political activism according to Daniel saw him flee to Ghana in 1962 during the treason trial of Awolowo, leading to multiple arrests and detentions over the years.
“He played a crucial role in NADECO (National Democratic Coalition) protests following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, where he, alongside other pro-democracy fighters—including now-President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—opposed military rule.
“His relentless push for true federalism and restructuring remained central to his advocacy until his final days.
In the session, multiple senators shared personal reflections on Adebanjo’s life and impact.
Senator Henry Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) described him as “a titan of democracy who remained unapologetic in his fight for equity and justice.” He also noted Adebanjo’s deep ties to progressive political movements and his mentorship of younger leaders.
According to him, the death of Adebanjo happens few days before his close ally in Edwin Clark said the duo may still be planning on the other side for a way to better Nigeria
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South), recalling the June 12 struggle, emphasized that “our democracy today stands on the sacrifices of men like Pa Adebanjo.”
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) praised his moral integrity, stating, “Adebanjo was never a politician of convenience; he was a leader of principle.”
The Senate unanimously passed three resolutions to honor the late Adebanjo, observing a minute of silence in his honor, Sending a high-powered delegation to condole with his family and the Ogun State government and urging the federal government to immortalize him by naming a national monument after him.
In his closing remarks, Senate President Akpabio urged Nigerians to see Adebanjo’s passing not as a loss but as “a celebration of a life dedicated to the betterment of Nigeria.”
He praised his courage, resilience, and unyielding commitment to the ideals of democracy.
As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most vocal and fearless advocates, the legacy of Pa Ayo Adebanjo remains a guiding light for those who continue the struggle for justice, equity, and a truly democratic nation.
The Nigerian Senate, on Wednesday, paid glowing tributes to the late Chief Edwin Clark, a towering figure in national politics and Niger Delta advocacy, who passed away on February 17 at the age of 97.
Acknowledging his immense contributions to Nigeria’s development, the Senate called on the Federal Government to immortalize Clark by naming a national monument after him. The lawmakers also resolved to send a high-powered delegation to condole with his family and participate in his funeral rites.
Leading the motion, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (APC-Delta) described Clark as a fearless nationalist, lawyer, and statesman who fought tirelessly for justice, equity, and the rights of marginalized communities.
“From his early days in Kiagbodo to his legal education in the UK, and later as a political leader, Edwin Clark remained unwavering in his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress,” Thomas noted.
According to him, Clark’s role as the founder of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in 2016 further cemented his legacy as an advocate for regional development and restructuring.
Several senators took turns to eulogize Clark, acknowledging his boldness, wisdom, and dedication to national unity.
Sen. Ede Dafinone (APC-Delta) said Clark was a fearless voice who never shied away from telling the truth.
Former Governor of Bayelsa state, Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa) described Clark’s leadership and commitment to justice as unmatched
Former senate Minority leader
Sen. Eyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia) said his legacy as a defender of the oppressed will live on.
Sen. Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi) described the late elder statesman as a bridge builder who preached unity across ethnic lines.
Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro said, “Clark was a pillar of wisdom, and his voice will be greatly missed.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Clark as a man whose influence transcended generations explaining further his Passion for Nigeria Was Unwavering.
“He fought for the rights of minorities across the country, standing as a symbol of courage and conviction. Even in his 90s, his voice carried weight because it was driven by a deep love for Nigeria,” Akpabio stated.
With the Senate’s call to immortalize him, Chief Edwin Clark’s name is set to be etched in the annals of Nigerian history,a testament to his lifelong struggle for equity, justice, and national cohesion.
The Obidient Movement has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as an inspirational patriot and a pillar of the envisioned New Nigeria.
In a heartfelt tribute, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, lauded Pa Adebanjo’s unwavering commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and national unity. His leadership in Afenifere and lifelong advocacy for good governance, Tanko noted, have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape.
Extending condolences to Pa Adebanjo’s family, the Afenifere organization, and the people of Ogun State, the Obidient Movement emphasized the need for more leaders who, like him, prioritize national progress above divisions of language, race, or religion.
“With the likes of Pa Adebanjo on a united front, A New Nigeria is Possible,” Tanko affirmed.
He prayed that his soul may rest in peace.
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