CHIEF E.K CLERK AT 90: A TRIBUTE TO AN ICON, A LIVING LEGEND

LAGOS, Nigeria – To Say that Chief Senator (Dr.) Edwin Clark is an imitable icon, will be an understatement. He is not only a father of nations, he is also an enigma of detribalized intercontinental leadership.

His affection for Nigeria’s development dates back to his early 20s, when he served his primary constituency, Burrutu of the the Mid-Western Region as a headmaster and community development officer, giving significant contributions to the development of education and the mobilization of the people for community development.

He has served in various local, regional and national capacities, including as a Commissioner for Education, Finance and Establishment in the old Bendel State in the 70s, Federal Minister for Information and National Orientation during the civil war till 1975 when General Gowon’s regime was terminated, as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1983 and today as the indisputable leader of the Ijaw Nation among others. Chief E. K. Clark is a father to all, and an alumnus of the Holborn College of Law, London. He was called to the Bar in England as a member of the Honorable Society of the Inner Temple and as a Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria over 50 years ago!

Chief Clark is not only a global asset in Public leadership, but a leader beyond boarders and a nationalist per Excellence.

My relationship with Chief, as most of his associates and even family members fondly call him, started more than a decade ago when my professional competence as a lawyer was called upon to give legal effect to his leadership and anti-corruption causes, and I can say without mincing words, that knowing him has been of tremendous positive impact, in growth and development to my law firm, Kayode Ajulo & Co. Castle of Law and to my political engagements.

In Chief, I’ve found a professional and political father, from whom I have learnt to continuously maintain the quantum of social justice, without fear and favor.

I celebrate the living legend for his numerous achievements which he made without denting the course of his integrity.

I today, join the world at large to celebrate the man of the moment, the voice to the voiceless, the peace in turbulent storm, and the definition of a worthy patriot.

I salute the undisputed living father of the Ijaw Nation who is a unifying figure for all Ijaws at home and in the diaspora. Standing for hope, fairness, faith, progress, justice and equity, words can neither adore you, nor praises revere you enough, for your immense contribution to our Nigeria, Africa, and the world at large.

And I must say, that I am most honored to identify with you today on the celebration of a life of excellence and greatness at 90.

In the words of the Psalmist in Psalm 71, V18, “now that you are old and greyheaded, I pray that the Lord will not forsake you until you have shown strength to this generation, the strength to be true and upright, to be brave and honest”, through Christ whom you have served to the best of your ability throughout your life, Amen.

Happy Birthday, Chief, may your bright light shine on!

Dr. Ajulo is the Principal Partner, Kayode Ajulo & Co. Castle of Law, Executive Director, Egalitarian Mission, Africa and was National Secretary, Labour Party