The family of the late elder statesman and nationalist, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has announced that he will be laid to rest on May 13, 2025, at his ancestral home in Kiagbodo Community, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
Clark, who passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, was a prominent political figure in Nigeria. He served as the Federal Commissioner for Information and later as a senator during the Second Republic. He was also a respected leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, widely known for his outspoken advocacy for resource control and equity in the Niger Delta.
The announcement of the funeral arrangements was made by his eldest son, Mr Penaowei Clark, during a press briefing held at the family residence in Kiagbodo on Saturday, April 5, 2025.
“Our father, who passed away on Feb 17, 2025, will be laid to rest on May 13, 2025, in his family compound in Kiagbodo,” Mr Penaowei Clark stated.
He explained that the decision on the funeral date came after extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including government officials, political associates, religious institutions, and socio-cultural organisations.
“The dates for the funeral were carefully considered and agreed upon in consultation with stakeholders including the government, political associates, religious bodies, and socio-cultural organisations,” he added.
Mr Penaowei was joined at the media briefing by several members of the Clark family, including Chief Ebikeme Clark, Delta State Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure Development, along with other prominent relatives and community leaders.
The funeral programme, according to the family, will span a week, beginning on May 7, 2025, in Abuja, where dignitaries from across the nation are expected to attend a series of tributes and honourary events in memory of the late elder statesman. The activities will then move to Delta State, with the final burial rites taking place in Kiagbodo on May 13.
Chief Edwin Clark, born on May 25, 1927, left behind a formidable legacy in Nigerian politics and regional advocacy. He was widely regarded as a fearless voice for justice, federalism, and the rights of the people of the Niger Delta. Over the years, he played a key role in shaping national discourse, especially around issues of equity, restructuring, and development in marginalised regions.
Since his passing, tributes have poured in from across the country, with many describing him as a patriot, mentor, and bridge-builder who remained unwavering in his principles even into his final years.
Preparations are already underway in Kiagbodo and other parts of the country to honour the life and legacy of the revered nationalist. A committee is expected to be set up in the coming days to oversee the logistics and ensure a befitting farewell for the late statesman.
