Barr Oludotun Sowemimo
With profound sorrow, I mourn the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, a true elder statesman, a national leader, and a father figure whose influence and impact on the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole will resonate for generations to come. Yesterday, we lost not just a leader, but a patriarch, a voice of reason, and a beacon of hope.
My personal connection to Chief Clark runs deep.
As the son of his dear friend, the late Chief Sobo Sowemimo (SAN), I was privileged to witness firsthand the kindness, wisdom, and genuine care that defined his character. He extended his hand of friendship to my father, and that bond extended to me as well.
His admiration for my mother’s Sister, Chief Mrs O. O Johnson further cemented the ties between our families and made them lifelong
He became a father figure in my life, offering guidance, support, and unwavering belief in my potential. For this, I am eternally grateful.
Chief Clark’s role in my life went beyond personal kindness. He welcomed me into his Niger Delta family, embracing me as one of his own. This meant the world to me. It demonstrated his large heart and his commitment to nurturing and empowering those around him.
He saw potential in people and invested in their growth. He truly believed in the strength and unity of the Niger Delta people.
Chief Clark’s contributions to our nation are immeasurable.
He was a tireless advocate for justice, equality, and the rights of the marginalized. He fought relentlessly for the development of the Niger Delta, ensuring that its voice was heard at the national level. He was a bridge-builder, fostering dialogue and understanding between different communities.
His leadership was marked by courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.
Beyond his public persona, Chief Clark was a man of warmth, compassion, and genuine concern for others. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life, earning their respect and admiration. He was a source of strength and inspiration, always ready with a word of encouragement or a helping hand.
The passing of Chief Edwin Clark leaves a void that can never be filled. We have lost a father, a leader, a mentor, and a true champion of the Niger Delta. But his legacy lives on – in the countless lives he touched, in the progress he championed, and in the enduring spirit of unity and resilience he instilled in us all. My deepest condolences go to his family and to the entire Niger Delta family.
Rest in peace, Chief Edwin Clark.
Your memory will forever be a blessing.
