The Nigerian Senate is pushing for the federal government to immortalize the late Edwin Clark, a renowned Ijaw leader and politician, by naming a national monument after him.
This move is a testament to Clark’s significant contributions to the country’s development, particularly in the areas of education and politics.
During plenary on Tuesday, the Senate observed a minute of silence in his honor and the resolutions followed a motion titled, “The Demise of Senator (Chief) Edwin K. Clark, OFR, CON (May 25, 1927 – February 17, 2025),” sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (APC-Delta South) and co-sponsored by 16 other Senators from the South-South geopolitical zone.
Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Clark was a highly respected figure who dedicated his life to public service.
He served as a federal commissioner of information in 1975 and was also an unofficial adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Clark’s achievements are numerous, and his legacy continues to inspire many. He founded the Edwin Clark University, which was established in 2015, and was also a key player in the establishment of the University of Benin.
His commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region was unwavering, and he worked tirelessly to promote the interests of the Ijaw people.
The Senate’s decision to urge the federal government to name a national monument after Clark is a fitting tribute to his memory and a recognition of his enduring impact on Nigerian society.
As a politician, Clark was a member of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and later joined the National Party of Nigeria (NPN).
He was also a senator for three months in 1983, during the twilight of the Shagari administration.
Clark’s passing on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, was met with an outpouring of tributes from across the country, with many praising his dedication to public service and his commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region.
The Senate’s move to immortalize Clark’s legacy is a significant step in ensuring that his contributions to Nigerian society are not forgotten.
By naming a national monument after him, the federal government can help to preserve his memory and inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps
