Mutfwang, Bago, Otu, Makinde mourn demise of Clark

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang; Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago; Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the revered South-South leader and a former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed at the age of 97.

In a condolence message, Mutfwang described Clark as a selfless leader, a father figure and a beacon of hope, whose immeasurable contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth and national discourse would continue to inspire generations.

In a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, the governor noted that the late statesman lived a fulfilled life marked by patriotism, integrity and resilience, particularly in championing equity, justice and inclusive governance.

BAGO, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, described the deceased as a true nationalist, an astute administrator and a freedom-fighter, whose passion for regional and national growth and development was second to none.

He recalled how Clark was persistent in advocating justice and fairness in all spheres of the nation’s economy, particularly for the people of Niger Delta.

The governor acknowledged that Chief Clark was a bridge-builder, who had track records of mediated peace among warring communities and politicians, particularly in his region.

MAKINDE, in his message, described Clark as a nationalist of great repute, who loved Nigeria with all his heart and worked for a better Nigeria till his last moment.

His comment is contained in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Sulaimon Olanrewaju.

The governor condoled with “the immediate family of the late Clark, the government and people of Delta State and, indeed, all patriotic Nigerians with whom Clark walked shoulder to shoulder to agitate for reforms that would bring about true federalism in the last few decades.”

SIMILARLY, Otu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Clark, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill.

The governor described Clark’s demise as a significant loss to Nigeria.

He noted that the news came just a day after he met with a delegation from the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), during which he extended his good wishes to Clark, who was unable to join the delegation to Cross River State due to health reasons.

“Chief Clarke’s absence from the delegation’s visit was a reminder of his health challenges, yet it did not diminish the strong bond he shared with the people of Cross River,” the governor said.

Otu acknowledged Clark’s passing at the age of 97 as the end of a life well-lived, but emphasised that his wealth of experience, wisdom and dedication to public service would be sorely missed.