Former governorship aspirant in Edo State, Barrister Kenneth Imansuagbon, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, the revered Ijaw National Leader and elder statesman, who passed away on Monday night, describing his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria.
In a solemn reflection, Imansuagbon recalled his last visit to Chief Clark in 2024, where he engaged with the late leader on national issues. “I remember sitting with him, listening to his deep thoughts about Nigeria. He was a man who spoke the truth, even when it was uncomfortable. He never shied away from saying what needed to be said,” he stated.
Chief Clark, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and a staunch advocate for justice, equity, and good governance, was a towering figure in Nigeria’s political landscape. Until his passing, he remained vocal in demanding fairness for the Niger Delta region and a better Nigeria for all.
Imansuagbon, in a signed statement made available to journalists in Benin City, lamented the loss of the elder statesman “whose integrity and unwavering commitment to truth set him apart in a nation where dishonesty often prevails.”
“In a country where almost everyone is a liar, we have lost a man of truth. He was fearless in holding leaders accountable and calling for justice. His passing leaves a vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” he said.
He further emphasised that Nigeria must take Chief Clark’s legacy as a call to return to the path of truth and justice.
“He fought for a better Nigeria but did not see it in his lifetime. Yet, he never gave up hope. His dream must not die with him. We must honor his memory by standing for what is right, for the truth he always defended.”
While mourning the great leader’s departure, Imansuagbon called on Nigerians, especially the younger generation, to learn from Chief Clark’s unwavering principles.
“This is not just a loss to the Ijaw nation but to all Nigerians who desire a just and fair society. We must rise and build the Nigeria he envisioned.”
As the nation grieves, Imansuagbon urged the government and the people of Nigeria to uphold Chief Clark’s ideals of equity, fairness, and truth.
“Let us not just mourn him with words; let us live by the values he stood for. That would be the greatest tribute to this great man.
“Chief E.K. Clark’s voice may be silent, but his legacy of truth, courage, and patriotism will continue to inspire generations to come,” Imansuagbon stated.
