News
The Fall of a Colossus: PAP Boss Otuaro Pay Glowing Tribute to Pa. Clark
Says Pa Clark’s Contribution to Nation Building Enormous
By Admin
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and foremost Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
Clark, who was a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a key advocate for the Niger Delta and the South-South region, died at the age of 97 on Monday, February 17, 2025. His passing was officially announced by his immediate family.
Describing the loss as monumental, Otuaro stated that Clark’s contributions to Nigeria, the Ijaw nation, the Niger Delta, and other minority groups in the country were unparalleled.
A Towering Political Figure
Otuaro extolled Clark as “a great patriot, nationalist, teacher, lawyer, administrator, and a towering figure in Nigerian politics who made immense contributions to the political development and unity of the country.”
He noted that Clark’s public service records, spanning both pre-colonial and post-colonial Nigeria, were “legendary, and a manifestation of his unwavering commitment and dedication to nation building.”
Mentor and Advocate for Justice
The PAP boss also highlighted Clark’s role as a charismatic leader and mentor under whose guidance major socio-political organizations, such as the Ijaw National Congress (INC), South South Peoples Assembly, Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), became “strong leading voices for regional and national cohesion built on the principles of equity, fairness and justice.”
He further described Clark as “a fearless Ijaw man” who was “a tireless and consistent freedom fighter for minority rights and a powerful advocate for true federalism, resource control, environmental justice, economic development, and better living conditions for his people in the Niger Delta.”
A Personal Influence
Reflecting on Clark’s impact on his own life, Otuaro acknowledged that he had personally benefited from the late statesman’s wisdom.
“As a growing young Ijaw man, I learnt and benefitted valuable life-lessons at the feet of the departed elder statesman which had helped me a great deal in my life,” he stated.
He also praised Clark’s remarkable intellect and sharp memory, noting that even in old age, the late leader remained “a reservoir of knowledge and wisdom.”
Condolences and Prayers
Expressing his deep sorrow, Otuaro described Clark as “a warrior-father” and extended his heartfelt condolences to the Clark family, the Ijaw nation, and the people of the Niger Delta.
He concluded by praying for God to grant Clark’s soul eternal rest and to comfort his loved ones.
The statement was signed by Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, on February 18, 2025.
By Favour Bibaikefie
Tomorrow, Friday, May 16, 2025, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone — covering Delta, Edo, and Ondo states led by Comrade Nicholas Igarama — will solemnly mark the 57th anniversary of Boro Day at Chief Tunde Smooth Playground, NPA Warri, Delta State. The event will feature a dynamic procession through the streets of Warri, followed by an insightful symposium aimed at celebrating and reflecting on the enduring legacy of Ijaw fallen hero, Major Isaac Adaka Boro.
Major Isaac Adaka Boro remains one of the most iconic figures in the history of the Niger Delta and the Ijaw nation. Born in 1938 in the Niger Delta region, Major Boro was a Nigerian nationalist, soldier, and activist who passionately championed the rights of his people long before Biafra Republic causes.
In February 1966, Major Boro declared the Niger Delta Republic — a bold and unprecedented move — in an effort to free the Niger Delta region from the exploitation and marginalization of the Niger Delta region by the Nigerian federal government in collution with multinational oil companies. Though short-lived, this declaration sparked a significant movement for self-determination, environmental justice, and economic fairness in the oil-rich region.
Boro’s armed struggle, sacrifices, and calls for equity continue to inspire generations of Ijaws and Niger Delta activists fighting for justice, resource control, and political representation.
Major Boro, who died in combat on March 9, 1968, remains a revered Niger Delta nationalist and freedom fighter.
The 2025 Boro Day Commemoration
This year’s Boro Day celebration in Warri will bring together Ijaw youths, community leaders, cultural groups, and sympathizers from across Delta, Edo, and Ondo states to honor Major Boro’s memory. The procession will wind through key parts of Warri, symbolizing unity and resilience among the Ijaw people.
Following the procession, a symposium will convene at Chief Tunde Smooth Playground, where distinguished speakers and historians will share insights on Major Boro’s impact and the ongoing struggle for the Niger Delta’s development and recognition.
While the Warri event is the focal point for the Western Zone, Ijaws worldwide will also hold events commemorating Major Boro’s sacrifice and vision, demonstrating the far-reaching influence of his legacy.
* Tompolo doesn’t spray money; he cannot be held accountable for actions of unknown individuals – Ozobo, IPDI
A leading Niger Delta activist Comrade Ozobo Austin who doubles as the National president of the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative (IPDI), has come forward to exonerate High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, from the recent allegations of monetary abuse levied by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).
The Niger Delta activist emphasized that there is no concrete evidence supporting the claims presented in the controversial and manipulative viral video that Tompolo sprayed money. He asserted that it is unjust to hold Tompolo responsible for the misdeeds of others.
Comrade Ozobo further alleged that the EFCC has been misled by individuals involved in oil theft and by naive Nigerians whose motives are grounded in envy and jealousy.
He said Tompolo who has great respect for the country’s laws will not condescend low to abuse the law, adding that it would have been better for EFCC to have looked for the unknown individuals responsible for the abuse of the naira in the viral video than dragging the innocent man to disrepute.
The Niger Delta advocate warned mischief makers to invest their time into a meaningful ventures and pursue responsible causes rather than making propaganda against the innocent Tompolo.
He emphasised that Tompolo would not respond to social media critics and unschooled individuals who take joy in manipulating fellow brothers.
Ozobo urged EFCC to be a noble organization and not to allow evil men and unscrupulous social media influencers to instigate them into commenting on unnecessary issues that were capable of threatening the fragile peace of Niger Delta.
News
Burutu LGA Chairman, Commissioner for Housing Inspect Burial Venue of Late Chief Pa Edwin Clark in Kiagbodo
By Peter Ziakegha, May 10, 2025
Kiagbodo, Burutu_The Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Julius Takeme, in company of the Delta State Commissioner for Housing and Chairman of the Burial Venue Committee, Rt. Hon. Godknows Angele, on Friday inspected the ongoing preparations at the burial venue of the late elder statesman, Chief Pa Edwin Clark, in Kiagbodo.
The visit was aimed at assessing the state of readiness of key facilities and ensuring that arrangements are in place for a dignified and well organised ceremony. The duo expressed satisfaction with the progress of work so far.
Among the areas inspected were the main burial arena, the church slated for the final funeral rites, and the designated parking space for invited dignitaries. Workers were observed mounting canopies, setting up chairs, and grading roadways to ease access to the venue.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Takeme lauded the coordination and commitment of the central planning committee. He assured that all logistics would be completed in good time to honour the legacy of the late Chief Pa Edwin Clark.
Preparations are in top gear as the community, the planning committee and the local government get set to host dignitaries and mourners from across the country for the final rites of the respected leader.