On Wednesday, April 2, the Obule family of Okuovu 1, Sapele Local Government Area, led by Pa Alfred Obule, visited the family of the late Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at his home in Kiagbodo, Burutu LGA, to offer their condolences following the death of the prominent elder statesman and Ijaw leader.
Chief Alfred Mulade, the former Registrar of Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, received the Obule family on behalf of the Clark family, thanking them for their visit and noting that it was a fitting tribute to the late Pa Clark’s remarkable legacy.
Chief Mulade spoke warmly of Pa Clark, describing him as a unifying force who built bridges across ethnic and regional divides.
He remarked, "Chief Dr. E.K. Clark was a father to everyone. His passing has turned Kiagbodo into a place of pilgrimage, as countless individuals who were touched by his life come to pay their respects."
Mulade went on to reflect on Pa Clark’s unwavering dedication to truth, justice, and fairness. "We are proud of our father. He stood firmly by what was right, speaking boldly without fear or favor, no matter whose interests were at stake."
Hon. Comrade Francis Obule, JP, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, led the Obule family’s delegation and conveyed their heartfelt sympathies.
"On behalf of the Obule family of Okuovu 1, Sapele LGA, under Pa Alfred Obule’s leadership, we extend our deepest condolences to the Clark family, the Ijaw Nation, and all who mourn the passing of our esteemed elder statesman and leader, Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON," he said.
Hon. Obule described Pa Clark’s death as a significant loss to not only his family and the Ijaw Nation but also to the entire Niger Delta and Nigeria.
"Chief E.K. Clark was an unwavering advocate for justice, equity, and the development of the Niger Delta. His tireless efforts for the rights of his people and the progress of our nation will never be forgotten," he stated.
He went on to highlight Chief Clark’s influential career as a former Federal Commissioner for Information, a senator, and a revered elder statesman.
"He was the voice of the Niger Delta—fearless and courageous, always speaking truth to power for the love of Nigeria. His dedication to the welfare of his people and his fearlessness in challenging any government will be missed," Hon. Obule said.
He further emphasized the importance of honoring Pa Clark’s legacy. "As we mourn his passing, we celebrate his extraordinary life of service and sacrifice. His legacy will continue to shape the future of the Niger Delta and guide those who strive for a just and prosperous Nigeria. We pray that God gives the Clark family the strength to bear this great loss, and may his soul rest in peace."
Mrs. Rebecca Clark Okorodudu, Pa Clark’s eldest daughter, expressed her gratitude to the Obule family. "Your visit reminds us that we are not alone in our grief and affirms the lasting impact of our father’s life," she said.
She also encouraged others to emulate her father's values of integrity and righteousness.
The visit concluded with Prof. Collins College Clark, the head of the Clark family, offering prayers for the Obule family’s safe return.
0 Comments