Clark, Adebanjo’s deaths leave Nigeria with big void – Group
The Patriots, under the chairmanship of Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has expressed sadness at the demise of elder statesman, Edwin Clark particularly coming a few days after the death of Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
The body, comprising eminent leaders of thought, particularly said the deaths of Clark and Adebanjo within the space of five days left the nation with a void too big for Nigerians to fill.
Adebanjo died last Friday, aged 96, at his home in Lekki, Lagos, while Clark, the Pan Niger Delta Forum leader, passed away on Monday, aged 97 years.
A statement by the general secretary, The Patriots, Olawale Okunniyi, lamented that the nation lost patriots who made courageous and forthright interventions on national issues.
The Patriots noted that Clark stood out as an inspiring and formidable voice committed to a new people’s constitution, the return of the country to true democratic federalism to be negotiated by the constituent assembly of Nigerians.
“He was therefore instrumental to the success recorded by the 2014 National Confab, where he led the southern delegates effectively.
“The Patriots find his (Clark’s) demise at this critical time, coming on the heels of the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, another patriotic giant of inestimable measure, as a loss and void too big for the peoples of Nigeria to handle.
“Edwin Clark will surely be missed by all Patriots, especially for his courageous and forthright interventions on national issues affecting the peoples of Nigeria.”
The group, however, said it was consoled by the fact that Edwin Clark lived an illustrious life full of insurmountable legacies for generations to come.
“He was indeed outstanding on the side of the people in speaking truth to power in Nigeria.
“We encouraged that though his soul has departed the world, his immutable legacies are here alive with us always.
“The Patriots wish to commiserate with members of Chief Edwin Clark’s immediate family, praying that God comfort them and give them the heart to bear this irreplaceable loss to them, the peoples of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large,” the statement read.
