The National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists, Chief Edwin Clark.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, Fasoranti described Clark’s demise as a significant loss to the country, particularly to those advocating for democracy and restructuring.
Clark, a veteran statesman and fearless advocate for national unity, passed away on Monday evening at the age of 97.
Fasoranti paid tribute to Clark’s unwavering commitment to justice and his outspokenness on national issues.
“Lovers of democracy, and particularly advocates of restructuring, will sorely miss the former Commissioner for Information,” Fasoranti stated.
“Since the need to ensure that Nigeria serves the best interests of the vast majority became more pertinent, my brother Clark was a very strong advocate.
“His voice was loud in the agitations for a restructured Nigeria. He always displayed the same strong passion for national issues, especially those that affected the South-South,” he added.
Fasoranti also lamented the painful reality of losing yet another compatriot just days after the passing of former Afenifere acting leader, Chief Ayodele Adebanjo.
“Of course, we know that death is inevitable for all mortals, but it is heart-wrenching to lose one’s comrades in quick succession.
“On behalf of Afenifere and fellow compatriots, I extend my condolences to the immediate and extended families of our late patriot, Edwin Clark, the people of Delta State, and the South-South region at large,” he stated.
Until his death, Clark was the leader of the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, an influential coalition representing ethnic nationalities from the Middle Belt, South-South, South-East, and South-West.
Afenifere, representing the South-West, was a founding member of the organisation.
“Indeed, Adebanjo, a prominent leader of Afenifere, was the deputy chairman of SMBLF before his demise,” Fasoranti noted.
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