WELCOME TO KTNBIO

The Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on Political Matters and Prime Minister of Kabowei Kingdom Worldwide, High Chief Collins Cocodia, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and Niger Delta leader, Chief Edwin Clark.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Patrick Ndubuisi, Cocodia said Clark’s demise has created a significant vacuum in the Ijaw nation and the entire Niger Delta.

According to Cocodia, it will take time to find someone who will follow in Clark’s footsteps and champion the cause of the Ijaw nation and the wider South-South region as he did during his lifetime.

Cocodia made this assertion while speaking on a citizens’ participatory programme titled “The Life and Times of Pa E.K. Clark,” broadcast on the state-owned radio station, Glory FM 97.1, Yenagoa.

The political adviser noted that despite his age, the late Clark remained the voice of the voiceless and a beacon of hope for the hopeless, consistently advocating for equality, fairness, and justice, particularly for the Niger Delta region.

He commended the Bayelsa State Government, led by Senator Douye Diri, for declaring a three-day mourning period and suspending all anniversary activities in honour of the elder statesman.

Recognising that Clark lived a life worthy of emulation, Cocodia described the late leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, as the most consistent and vocal advocate for the Niger Delta.

He further portrayed him as a champion of true federalism and resource control, who remained critical of governments that failed to meet expected standards at the national, regional, and state levels.

He said: “We have lost a man who spoke for an entire region; we have lost a man who became selfless in his service to the people. We have lost an educationist, the first Ijaw man to establish a privately owned university in Ijawland.

“The E.K. Clark University is the first private university in Ijawland, and he deserves recognition for that achievement.

“Pa E.K. Clark came, he saw, and I am certain he did everything within his power to better society.

“In terms of his impact on politics, he was a man who scrutinised governments, boldly criticised those that fell short, and sought to shape governance for the benefit of the people. A man who held firm convictions and consistently stood by them was truly shaping the politics of this country.”

Cocodia also praised Clark for always advocating for capable individuals to be appointed to strategic positions in government for the betterment of the nation.

He affirmed that Clark’s numerous legacies would endure for generations, including his mentorship of many individuals across the country.

Cocodia expressed hope that, in due time, one of Clark’s mentees or a group of like-minded individuals would step forward to continue his advocacy for good governance, equity, fairness, and justice—causes for which the late elder statesman fought tirelessly throughout his lifetime.