“Obule Family Pays Condolence Visit to the Family of Late Pa E.K. Clark
By Wilson Macaulay
The Obule family of Okuovu 1, Sapele Local Government Area, led by Pa Alfred Obule, paid a condolence visit on Wednesday, April 2, to the family of the late Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at his country home in Kiagbodo, Burutu LGA. The visit was to commiserate with the family over the passing of the revered elder statesman and national leader of the Ijaw Nation.
Chief Alfred Mulade, immediate past Registrar of Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, welcomed the Obule family delegation on behalf of the Clark family. He expressed gratitude for their visit, noting that it was a fitting tribute to the legacy of the late Chief E.K. Clark.
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In his remarks, Chief Mulade stated that the Clark family was not surprised by the Obule family’s gesture, as the late Pa Clark was a unifying figure who built bridges across ethnic and regional lines.
“Late Chief Dr. E.K. Clark was a father to all. His passing has transformed Kiagbodo into a place of pilgrimage, as countless people whose lives he touched have come to pay their respects,” he said.
Describing Pa Clark’s unwavering principles, Chief Mulade added, “We are proud of our father. He stood firmly by the truth and was always bold in speaking out, regardless of whose interests were at stake. He never sat on the fence but fearlessly championed justice and fairness.”
Speaking on behalf of the Obule family, Hon. Comrade Francis Obule, JP, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, who led the Obule Family on the visit conveyed their heartfelt condolences.
“With deep sorrow and profound respect for God’s will, the Obule Family of Okuovu 1, Sapele LGA, under the leadership of Pa Alfred Obule, extends our deepest sympathies to the entire Clark family, the Ijaw Nation, and all who mourn the passing of our great elder statesman, nationalist, and leader, Late Chief Senator Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON,” he said.
Hon. Francis Obule described Chief Clark’s death as a monumental loss, not just to his immediate family and the Ijaw Nation but also to the entire Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
“Chief E.K. Clark was an unwavering advocate for justice, equity, and the development of the Niger Delta. His relentless fight for the rights of his people and the progress of our nation will forever be remembered. His legacy as a fearless defender of democracy, a champion of good governance, and a mentor to generations of leaders will remain etched in history,” he stated.
Reflecting on Chief Clark’s illustrious career, he added, “His invaluable contributions as a former Federal Commissioner for Information, a senator, and a revered elder statesman set a standard for selfless service and patriotism. He was the voice of the Niger Delta—fearless and courageous, always ready to speak truth to power out of his deep love for Nigeria. He was a leader who prioritized the welfare of his people, unafraid to challenge any administration, whether at the national or state level. Indeed, we will miss him dearly.”
Hon. Obule further emphasized the need to celebrate Pa Clark’s life and legacy.
“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his extraordinary life of positive impact and sacrifice. His legacies will continue to shape the future of the Niger Delta and serve as a guiding light for all who seek a just and prosperous Nigeria. We pray that Almighty God grants the Clark family the fortitude to bear this great loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations.”
In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Rebecca Clark Okorodudu, the eldest daughter of Pa Clark, expressed gratitude to the Obule family, describing them as close friends with an unbroken bond of friendship.
“Your visit reassures us that we are not alone in this moment of grief. It also affirms the goodwill of our father and how deeply he touched lives across different spheres,” she said.
She encouraged everyone to emulate her father’s legacy by upholding integrity and doing what is right at all times.
The head of the Clark family, Prof. Collins College Clark, concluded the visit with prayers for the Obule family’s safe return home.
