Tinubu, Jonathan, Akpabio, Oborevwori Lead Tributes as Clark is Laid to Rest
KIAGBODO/Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori were among the prominent dignitaries who paid glowing tributes to the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, during his funeral service on Tuesday at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
The solemn event drew a high-profile crowd, including former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan; Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi); Delta Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme and his wife Ezinne Catherine; former Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa; Senators Joel-Onowhakpo Thomas, Ede Dafinone, and Henry Seriake Dickson; former Rivers State Governor Chief Rufus Ada George; and Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh.
Representing President Tinubu, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Pa Clark as “a beacon of courage” and “a passionate advocate for resource control and social justice.” Tinubu praised his patriotic views, unflinching integrity, and relentless pursuit of a united Nigeria.
Former President Jonathan hailed the late Clark as a “staunch advocate for freedom and national pride,” saying he was a fearless preacher of justice and inclusivity. “Whether as a federal commissioner or as an elder statesman, Pa Clark was an audacious voice for the voiceless,” Jonathan said.
Senate President Akpabio echoed similar sentiments, calling Clark “a pan-Nigerian and Pan-African” who stood for justice and the rights of minorities. “He belonged to a generation that believed in freedom and stood tall when others bowed for convenience,” Akpabio said.
Governor Oborevwori, in his tribute, described Clark as “fearless, vocal, and assertive,” noting that he was unwavering in speaking truth to power. “He lived a fulfilled life, dedicated to service and the fight for equity, justice, food security, and public welfare,” the governor said. He urged leaders of the Niger Delta to remain united to sustain Clark’s legacy, while commending former President Jonathan and Senate President Akpabio for their continued leadership.
The Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, Archbishop of the Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, delivered the homily, referencing Proverbs 22:1 — “A good name is better than riches.” He praised Pa Clark for his impeccable character and his selfless pro bono legal service to the underprivileged. “He was a true voice for the Niger Delta,” the Archbishop declared.
Warning against the rising influence of false prophecies in Nigeria, Archbishop Odutemu called for national repentance and a return to integrity. Citing Matthew 6:33, he urged Nigerians to seek God first and live in righteousness, stressing that true wealth lies in moral legacy, not material possession.
