Elder statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has passed away at the age of 97. His death was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark.

The statement read, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, 17th February 2025. The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”

Clark’s passing comes just days after the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at 96. Both men were instrumental in Nigeria’s political development and were vocal advocates for regional equity and national unity. In 2022, Clark and Adebanjo attended the Greater Nigeria Conference in Abuja, where they discussed the emergence of a Nigerian president from the Southeast.

A lawyer, administrator, and nationalist, Clark was a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta. He served as Commissioner for Education in the Mid-Western Region from 1968 to 1971 and later as Commissioner for Finance and Establishment in the defunct Bendel State from 1972 to 1975. At the federal level, he was appointed Commissioner for Information in 1975 and later served as a Senator from 1979 to 1983.

Beyond politics, Clark played a key role in mediating peace among warring communities and political factions in the Niger Delta. Recently, he spearheaded efforts to reconcile Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his former political ally, Nyesom Wike. In October 2024, he established a committee led by former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah to facilitate the peace process.

His death marks the end of an era in Niger Delta politics, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy, leadership, and commitment to national unity.