The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has marked one year since the passing of elder statesman Edwin Clark with a deeply emotional tribute, saying his legacy remains strong and his voice still echoes across Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Godknows Igali, the group described Clark as a towering national figure whose lifelong commitment to justice, unity and fairness continues to inspire the country.
Titled *“One Year Gone, and Your Presence Is Still Mighty,” the tribute reflected on the life of the late Niger Delta leader, who died at 98 after decades of service to the nation.
“Today, we specially remember with the fondest memories our father, leader, national icon and statesman, Chief E.K. Clark, OFR, CON,” the statement read.
“One year feels like just yesterday. After 98 years of labour and devotion to building our nation Nigeria — where truth, justice, fairness and harmony reign — you departed with those final words: ‘I am a Nigerian, I love Nigeria.’
PANDEF highlighted Clark’s unwavering struggle for the unity, development and national relevance of the Niger Delta and the wider South-South geopolitical zone as one of his most enduring legacies.
“Your toil for the unity, solidarity and national relevance of the Niger Delta — indeed the entire South-South geopolitical zone — will be celebrated and cherished for generations,” the group stated.
Describing him as fearless and principled, PANDEF praised Clark’s courage in consistently speaking truth to power and pushing for reforms.
“A game changer you were. Your memory and voice remained firm, astute and unwavering to the very end. Like a lion, your courage resonated far and wide,” the statement added.
The group expressed confidence that his vision for a just and equitable Nigeria would not fade with time.
As part of events commemorating the first anniversary of his death, PANDEF announced a special memorial service to be held in his honour at Edwin Clark University.
“Even as we remember you in a special memorial service at your Edwin Clark University today, rest on dear daddy, ‘Gogorogo,’the statement concluded.
The tribute, dated February 17, 2026, underscores the enduring influence of Clark, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist leaders and a powerful voice for the Niger Delta.
Though his passing in 2025 marked the end of an era, PANDEF insists that his ideals — resource control, regional development, good governance and national unity — remain alive in Nigeria’s ongoing pursuit of justice, equity and harmony.
