By Fatima Saka
President of the Ijaw National Congress, Professor Benjamin Okaba, has described the late Chief Edwin Clark, CFR, CON, as a man of integrity and a rare breed of leader who consistently spoke truth to power and stood for the unity of Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, following tributes paid to the late elder statesman by the Nigerian Senate, Professor Okaba emphasized that Clark’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to national unity and justice.
“Chief Clark was a man of integrity, a special breed known for his courage and capacity to speak truth to power,” Okaba said. “In all his agitations and disagreements with governments, he never advocated for the disintegration of Nigeria. He believed in a united, equitable country.”
He recalled how Clark’s advocacy always centered on dialogue, even in the face of oppression, marginalization, and exploitation.
“He believed that Nigerians could always disagree to agree, and work together to fix the country. He was never one to support division. He stood firm and made himself available to advise every government in power,” Okaba added.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the late elder statesman, the professor said, “As President, he was my chairman of the DOT. For me, a father is gone. A chief advisor is gone. In his last days, the guidance, wisdom, and inspiration he gave me were immeasurable. I can only pray that God, in His infinite mercy, will help us uphold the virtues he lived by.”
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Commenting on the Senate session, Okaba expressed pride in the national recognition of Clark’s legacy: “From the citations and tributes delivered by the Senate President and other senators, it was evident that our father was a father to all Nigerians. When your father is praised that way, you feel very proud.”
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