ABUJA — The Senate’s valedictory session in honor of the late Chief Edwin Clark, an elder statesman, took a dramatic turn on Thursday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio strongly rebuked Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, for comments he made about the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
During a memorial lecture for Clark on Wednesday, Obi lamented that the sacrifices of Nigeria’s past heroes were in vain. He remarked, “The labour of our fallen heroes is in vain. They have sacrificed for nothing,” reflecting on the disillusionment he felt after participating in the 2023 general election.
The Senate session quickly shifted focus when Akpabio, visibly upset, responded to Obi’s statement, rejecting his claims. Akpabio argued that the continued existence of Nigeria as a nation proved that the sacrifices of the country’s heroes had not been in vain.
He said, “Nigeria is still standing. Despite the challenges we’ve faced—despite attempts by some to sow discord—our unity remains. Very few nations as diverse and vast as Nigeria have remained intact. Countries like the former USSR have fragmented and are still struggling with war and reunification. Nigeria endures, thanks to the voices and efforts of men like Pa Edwin Clark.”
Akpabio further challenged Obi to show his leadership abilities by resolving the internal crisis within the Labour Party, which he called a “small political platform,” and to demonstrate his capability to unite Nigeria. He pointed to his own accomplishments as a governor, including infrastructure development and religious unity initiatives, to emphasize that deeds speak louder than words.
Addressing the Clark family, Akpabio assured them that their patriarch’s legacy would not be forgotten, citing his contributions to national unity and development. He particularly highlighted Clark’s role in the “handshake across the Niger” initiative, which aimed to foster unity between Nigeria’s regions.
In his tribute, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin lauded Clark as a distinguished nationalist, noting his commitment to Nigeria’s unity despite his advocacy for the Niger Delta. He praised Clark for his enduring vision and service, urging Nigerians to protect both their communities and the national interest.
Senator Seriake Dickson described Clark as the “last of the Titans,” while Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele reflected on Clark’s career spanning over six decades, from his pioneering work in education to his vocal advocacy for the Niger Delta region.
Born in 1927, Clark began his career as a teacher and community development officer before studying law and becoming involved in Nigerian politics. He served in various key roles, including as a federal commissioner and senator. His contributions also included founding the Edwin Clark Foundation and establishing a university of technology in his hometown.
As the session concluded, the Senate observed a moment of silence in Clark’s memory and unanimously supported the call for a major national monument to honor his legacy. Akpabio and others in the Senate stressed the importance of preserving Clark’s contributions as an inspiration for future generations.
