Who Was Edwin Clark? Edwin Clark was a renowned Nigerian statesman, Ijaw leader, and politician from Delta State. He played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape, working with the administrations of military governor Samuel Ogbemudia and head of state, General Yakubu Gowon between 1966 and 1975.
Edwin Clark’s Age
Born on May 25, 1927, Edwin Clark was 97 years old at the time of his passing in 2025.
Political Career and Contributions
Edwin Clark’s political journey began in the pre-independence era when he was elected as a Councillor for Bomadi in 1953. He later joined the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and was actively involved in the West African Students’ Union while studying at Holborn College.
Following the January 1966 military coup, Clark participated in the 1966 ad-hoc constitutional conference convened by Gowon, where he and other Midwest delegates strongly opposed a confederation, advocating instead for Nigerian unity. His political career advanced when he was appointed Midwestern Commissioner of Education and later Finance, where he played a key role in founding the Midwest College of Technology, now known as the University of Benin.
During the Second Republic, Clark became a member of the National Executive Committee of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and served as the treasurer of the party in Bendel State (now part of Delta State). In 1983, he was elected as a senator, though he served only three months due to the fall of the Shagari administration.
From 1996, Clark emerged as a vocal leader of the Ijaw nation, advocating for the rights of the Ijaw ethnic group in Delta State, particularly during the ethnic crisis in Warri. He also led Ijaw leadership delegations to engage with Nigerian political leaders.
How Edwin Clark Died
Edwin Clark passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 97. His death was confirmed in a statement released by Prof. C. C. Clark, a family representative, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
The statement read: “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025. The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”
Achievements
One of Edwin Clark’s most notable achievements was founding Edwin Clark University in 2015, a prestigious institution that continues to impact Nigeria’s educational landscape.
Edwin Clark’s Net Worth
At the moment, Edwin Clark’s net worth remains undisclosed.
Edwin Clark’s legacy as a statesman, educator, and advocate for the Ijaw people remains indelible in Nigerian history. His contributions to governance, education, and ethnic leadership will continue to be remembered for generations to come.