The family of the late elder statesman and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has formally released the full schedule of burial activities in honour of the South-South leader who passed away on February 17, 2025.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja at the weekend, his first son, Penaowei Clark, announced that the funeral rites—planned in partnership with the Federal Government, Delta State Government, PANDEF, and key community stakeholders—will span from Tuesday, May 7 to Sunday, May 18, 2025.
A Memorial Lecture and Tributes event will commence the programme on Tuesday, May 7 at 11:00 a.m. at the Nigeria Air Force Conference Centre, Abuja. This will be followed by a Valedictory Session in the Senate Chambers of the National Assembly on Wednesday, May 8 at 11:00 a.m., in honour of Chief Clark’s service as a Senator during Nigeria’s Second Republic.
Penaowei Clark extended deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Delta State Government, other state governments, and all Nigerians for the widespread support and solidarity shown to the family since the passing of their patriarch.
“Chief Edwin Clark was a founding father of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), a tireless advocate for justice and national cohesion, and an inspiration to generations,” Penaowei noted, adding that the late Ijaw leader was not just a national figure but also a dedicated family man whose legacy continues to influence the lives of those he left behind.
Detailed Funeral Schedule
Tuesday, May 7
Memorial Lecture & Tributes
Venue: NAF Conference Centre, Abuja – 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, May 8
Valedictory Session
Venue: Senate Chambers, National Assembly, Abuja – 11:00 a.m.
READ ALSO: Gowon, Obasanjo, Anyaoku, Others to Honour Late Edwin Clark at May Day in Lagos
Saturday, May 10
Wrestling Contest – Yenagoa
Service of Songs – St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, Abuja – 5:00 p.m.
Candlelight Memorial – No. 43 Haile Selassie Street, Asokoro – 7:00–8:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 11
Service of Songs – Royal House of Grace International Church, Port Harcourt – 4:00 p.m.
Monday, May 12
Commendation Service – National Christian Centre, Abuja – 8:00 a.m.
Valedictory Court Session – High Court of Justice, Warri, Delta State – 10:00 a.m.
Lying-in-State & Commendation Services:
Ijaw House, Yenagoa – 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Swamp Road Residence, Warri – 6:30–7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 13
Lying-in-State – Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo – 10:00–10:30 a.m.
Commendation Service – 10:30–11:00 a.m.
Funeral Service – St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo – 11:00 a.m.
Reception & Interment – 1:00 p.m.
All-Night Vigil – Kiagbodo
Sunday, May 18
Thanksgiving Service
Penaowei Clark concluded by encouraging all friends, associates, political allies, and well-wishers to attend and celebrate the enduring legacy of Chief Edwin Clark, a man widely respected for his advocacy, patriotism, and devotion to Nigeria’s progress.
“This schedule reflects a joint effort to honour and celebrate the remarkable life of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. We invite all friends, associates, and well-wishers to join us in paying final respects to this great Nigerian,” he said.