A tribute on the life and legacy of Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark

This poem honours the remarkable life of Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a towering figure in
Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. It captures his relentless fight for justice, equity, and
resource control for the Niger Delta people. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt narrative, the
poem reflects his enduring legacy as a statesman, patriot, and advocate for unity. His voice, like
the mighty Niger River, resonated across generations, championing fairness and national
cohesion. This tribute serves as a timeless reminder of his courage, wisdom, and unwavering
commitment to the greater good—a legacy that will continue to inspire present and future leaders
alike.
From creeks of Delta, his voice arose,
A sentinel where the river flows.
Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a name so vast,
Rooted deep in Niger’s past.
With heart of steel, with mind so bright,
He stood for justice, truth, and right.

Born in the warmth of coastal grace,
He carried Niger’s dreams in embrace.
Educator, leader, statesman strong,
To whom the cause of peace belonged.
For Niger Delta, he raised his hand,
To guard the wealth of oil-rich land.

In corridors of power, his words were flame,
Echoing freedom, equity, and name.
Minister, elder, voice of the oppressed,
Championing fairness with relentless zest.
A patriot’s heart, an elder’s gaze,
Guiding through uncertain days.

With pen and voice, with will and fight,
He battled wrong, upheld the right.
Resource control—his clarion call,
For those whose riches served us all.
The creeks, the fields, the ocean’s sigh,
Bore witness as he passed by.

Not for power, nor wealth, nor fame,
Did Clark pursue his lifelong aim.
But justice for his people’s plight,
For lands turned dark, for stolen light.
A bridge of peace, a voice of grace,
For Niger’s sons in a nation’s race.

From Warri’s shores to Abuja’s halls,
His voice resounded through nation’s walls.
A father figure, a sage so true,
Who knew what sacrifice could do.
Unity and peace, his timeless plea,
For one Nigeria, strong and free.

He saw the flames of discord rise,
He sought the truth, with watchful eyes.
Counselor to young and old alike,
Whose wisdom calmed each brewing strike.
A nation’s conscience, clear and vast,
A link to futures from the past.

Time aged his frame but not his mind;
His vision sharp, his words aligned.
Elder statesman, Niger’s pride,
Who held the truth and never lied.
Till ninety-seven years were done,
His torch still blazed like morning sun.

The Delta weeps, the nation grieves,
The palm trees bow, the land believes.
His legacy, like river strong,
Will guide the Niger all along.
For in his steps, new paths are found,
Where hope and justice still resound.

Rest now, O Chief, your work complete,
Your life a tale of grace replete.
The Niger sings a solemn tune,
Beneath the sun, beneath the moon.
Chief Edwin Clark, your spirit soars,
Through Delta’s streams and nation’s shores.