Edith CHUKU
The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta MOSIEND, has urged Nigeria to immortalise the late elder statesman and Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
MOSIEND appealed that a prominent national institution, university or monument be named after him as a way of honouring his decades of selfless services.
The National President of the pan Niger Delta group, Dr. Kennedy Tonjo West, made this appeal when he joined prominent Nigerians in paying glowing tribute to the late icon.
West described Clark’s death as an irreplaceable loss to the Ijaw nation, the Niger Delta, and the entire country.
The MOSIEND president who spoke at the funeral ceremony held in Kiagbodo, Delta State, said he was deeply honoured to be present at the final rites of a man he described as a “towering symbol of truth, justice, and national unity.”
He noted that Pa Clark was a political titan and fearless defender of the rights of minority ethnic groups, whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
In his words, “Being here in Kiagbodo, standing among family, friends, and admirers from across the nation, I feel the weight of this loss.
“Chief Clark was not just an Ijaw leader, he was a national conscience and a relentless voice for justice.”
West emphasized that Clark’s life was marked by unwavering patriotism, bold activism, and a deep love for Nigeria.
He urged the federal government to “Immortalising Chief Clark is not just a symbolic gesture; it is a necessary step to preserve the legacy of a man who gave his all for a better Nigeria.”
West further called on Niger Delta youths to emulate the values Chief Clark stood for, his courage, wisdom, unity, and peaceful advocacy.
He added that the best way to honour the late elder statesman is by continuing the struggle for justice and development in the region through dialogue and constructive engagement.
Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark passed away at the age of 97, leaving behind a monumental legacy of leadership, service, and commitment to the ideals of fairness and equity in the Nigerian federation.
