Some of Nigeria’s most prominent elder statesmen, political leaders, and traditional rulers will gather in Lagos on Thursday, May 1, 2025, to honour the life and legacy of the late South-South icon and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark.
The tribute and prayer ceremony, scheduled to hold at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja from 2:00 PM, is being organized by the widow of the deceased, Dr (Mrs) Abisola Shodipo-Clark, in collaboration with close associates and Niger Delta leaders.
According to a statement signed by Mrs Baroong Tony Uranta on behalf of the Organising Committee, the ceremony will feature songs of praise, prayers led by Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House, and a tribute lecture titled “True Federalism and Resource Control in Nigeria” to be delivered by Rivers-born lawyer and activist, Prince Fafaa Dan-Princewill, on behalf of The Patriots.
Expected at the event are former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife; former Commonwealth Secretary-General and leader of The Patriots, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Acting Leader of Afenifere, Oba Oladipo Olaitan; and Chairman of PANDEF, Ambassador Godknows Igali.
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Other dignitaries include General Ike Nwachukwu, former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah, economist Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, Sir (Dr) Kensington Adebutu, Chief (Mrs) Nike Akande, Chief (Mrs) Maiden Ibru, Chief Goodie Ibru, Chief Wale Babalakin, governors of the six South-West states, traditional rulers, and notable leaders from the Niger Delta and beyond.
The event, described as a precursor to the main funeral rites, is aimed at celebrating Chief Clark’s enduring contributions to national development, his advocacy for resource control, and his unwavering commitment to justice and equity in Nigeria.
Organising Committee members include Senator Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, Chief Paxy Alakeme, High Chief John Odeyemi, Mrs Baroong Uranta, Mr Olumide Ajayi, and veteran activist Olawale Okunniyi, among others.