Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and prominent South-South leader, has passed away at the age of 97.

His death was confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark.

“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, February 17, 2025,” the statement read.

The family expressed gratitude for the prayers and support received during this time, adding that further details regarding his passing and funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.

Edwin Kiagbodo Clark was born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Nigeria. He pursued higher education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he studied law, later becoming a legal practitioner before venturing into politics.

He played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly during the First and Second Republics. He served as a Commissioner for Education and later as the Federal Commissioner for Information during General Yakubu Gowon’s military regime (1966–1975).

Edwin Clark was prominent voice for the rights of the Niger Delta region, Clark has consistently advocated for resource control, environmental justice, and the economic development of oil-producing communities. He has been a leading figure in pushing for greater autonomy and fair distribution of Nigeria’s oil wealth.

Over the years, he had remained an influential elder statesman, actively participating in national discourse. As a leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), he has been involved in peace negotiations and political consultations regarding Nigeria’s unity and stability.

Edwin Clark documented his experiences and views in several publications, highlighting Nigeria’s political history and the struggles of the Niger Delta. His contributions to national development, particularly in education and governance, have earned him respect as one of Nigeria’s most outspoken and enduring political figures.