Nigeria has lost another elder statesman. A few days ago, we lost Pa Adan at the age of 96, and just this morning, I received the sad news of the passing of Chief Dr. Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at the age of 97.
I first heard of Chief E.K. Clark when I was about nine or ten years old. By the time I was twelve, he was already the Commissioner for Education in the then Midwestern Region. One of his most memorable policies was the “No Pass, No Promotion” rule. At a time when there was a tendency to promote students regardless of their performance, he insisted that only those who passed would be promoted. This policy encouraged discipline and hard work in the educational system. As a primary school pupil at the time, his stance helped shape the educational values that contributed to who I am today.
His passion for education was evident in the establishment of Edwin Clark University in Kiagbodo. On a recent trip back from Ujewhe, I reflected on how his efforts placed Kiagbodo on the global educational map. I have visited the university four or five times to preach, and I can testify that it is one of the calmest environments for learning, with well-disciplined students.
Chief E.K. Clark was a fearless leader who always spoke his mind. He was never double-tongued and had an unwavering love for his people, the Niger Delta, the South-South, and Nigeria as a whole. He boldly expressed his opinions on national issues without fear. The last time I saw him was during a visit to his house in Abuja with my friend, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, former governor of Ondo State, during his bid for the presidency. We had a meaningful and memorable time with him.
We have lost a great man. My greatest pain is wondering whether he saw the Nigeria he worked and fought for. As I reflect on the future, I realize that in 31 years, I will be 97 years old—will I see the great Nigeria we all dream of? We are a nation of great minds, with families that have produced academics, professors, generals, and leaders. The Clark family itself is filled with accomplished individuals, yet Nigeria has not fully realized its potential.
This loss is a painful reminder of the fading generation of leaders who gave their all for this country. Did they see the fulfillment of their efforts? I can only pray that our nation moves toward the greatness they envisioned. I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Clark family, the people of Kiagbodo, and the Niger Delta. May God strengthen them, and may more leaders like Chief E.K. Clark, even greater than him, emerge from his lineage, his community, and Nigeria as a whole.
Like the stars of the morning, our elders fade away, only remembered by what they have done. As individuals, we must strive to leave behind a legacy worth remembering. We are pencils in the hand of God, writing history every day. What picture are we painting?
I remain Dr. Charles Apoki. God bless you, and God bless Nigeria.
