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Pan Niger Delta Forum leader, Edwin Clark, died on Monday at the age of 97.
A family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark, announced Clark’s death on Tuesday morning.
He was a Nigerian nationalist, elder statesman, lawyer and an influential political leader from the Niger Delta.
He was widely recognised for his unwavering advocacy for the region’s rights and development and his significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape.
Below are the things to know about Clark
He was born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State.
Clark began his schooling at African Church School in 1938 and later attended Government Teachers Training College, Abraka.
Between 1961 and 1964, he studied law at Holborn College, United Kingdom.
Clark’s political journey began in 1953 when he was elected a councillor in Bomadi (now in Delta State).
- Clark, a champion of equity, inclusion — CUPP
- Mighty iroko tree has fallen, PANDEF mourns passing of Edwin Clark
- Clark, a consummate politician, fearless critic - Keyamo
Over the years, he held several key government positions, including: Commissioner for Education (Mid-Western Region, 1968-1971)
Commissioner for Finance and Establishment (Bendel State, 1972-1975)
Federal Commissioner for Information under General Yakubu Gowon (1975)
As Commissioner for Education, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Mid-West Institute of Technology, which later became the University of Benin.
Clark was a powerful voice for the Niger Delta, advocating for better resource control; environmental protection; and economic development for the region.
He was a key figure in the Pan Niger Delta Forum and the Ijaw National Congress, consistently fighting for policies that favoured the region’s growth.
Believing in the power of education, he founded Edwin Clark University in Kiagbodo, Delta State, to nurture future generations.
His influence in Nigeria’s politics spanned decades and he remained a respected elder statesman until his death on February 17, 2025.
Clark leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, education and an unrelenting pursuit of justice and equity for both the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
![[STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE] AU Endorses Nigeria As AfCFTA Digital Trade Champion](/media/k2/items/cache/c8e2f69e2bf16292c2e9071c3aff2dbb_L.jpg)
The African Union (AU) has endorsed Nigeria as the Digital Trade Champion for the continent under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) Digital Trade protocol, following the impressive record of the Federal Government in promoting digital enterprise and innovation.
The 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, which concluded on Sunday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, recognised Nigeria's proactive role in advancing the implementation of the digital trade protocol adopted in February 2024.
The protocol features an agenda to develop eight annexes covering critical areas, including rules of origin, digital identities, cross-border data transfers, legitimate and legal public interest reasons for disclosing source code, online safety and security, emerging and advanced technologies, and financial technology.
In his annual report on the progress of the AfCFTA's digital trade protocol, former president of Niger Republic and AU AfCFTA champion Mahamadou Issoufou lauded Nigeria's leadership for convening the Digital Economy Roundtable in January.
He noted that the gathering was pivotal in driving the digital trade agenda forward.
''No organisation, region, or continent has negotiated or adopted such a comprehensive legal instrument on digital trade, positioning the African continent to benefit from the digital economy for innovation and job creation,'' former President Issoufou said.
The former Nigerien leader observed that young Africans are leaders in digital innovation, particularly in mobile banking and other digitally enabled services.
''The AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade will establish a conducive environment for these young people to fully participate in Africa's digital economy,'' he added.
Reflecting on the Digital Economy Roundtable in Abuja, Issoufou commended President Bola Tinubu and his administration for convening the event and inviting the AfCFTA Secretariat to participate.
''The Roundtable was attended by young pioneers in Fintech, mobile banking and other areas of the digital economy.
''It was evident from the discussions that young people are eager to take advantage of Africa's digital economy through the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade,'' the former Niger president said in his progress report to the 38th Assembly.
On the significance of the AU endorsement of Nigeria, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, told the summit:
"Africa has demonstrated global leadership by pioneering the first-of-its-kind AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade—establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework.
"The Assembly of Heads of State and Government has officially designated Nigeria as AfCFTA Digital Trade Champion. The AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol is a game changer in advancing Africa's economic development. It is set to create millions of jobs for Africa's growing, tech-savvy youth, contribute billions to the continent's GDP and attract substantial investments for public digital infrastructure across African nations."
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
It Is Worrisome That A US Congressman Has Spoken About It – Ndume Demands Probe Into USAID Funding Of Boko Haram
Admin
Former Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, has urged the Federal Government and the National Assembly to investigate allegations by U.S. Congressman, Scott Perry that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funding terrorist organisations, including Boko Haram.
Naija News reports that the American lawmaker, a Republican from Pennsylvania, made the claim last Thursday during the inaugural hearing of the U.S. House Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency.
In a viral video, Perry alleged that USAID had been providing up to $697m annually to terrorist groups, including Boko Haram.
Reacting to the allegation during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, Ndume lamented over the devastating impact of Boko Haram in the country.
He described the allegation as weighty and worrisome,” stressing the need for a thorough investigation.
“Boko Haram has ravaged not only the North-East but even Nigeria as a whole. You can remember how Boko Haram bombed the police headquarters and the UN office in Abuja. The casualties were enormous. But the security agencies have raised this issue indirectly several times. Even the Borno State government was wary of the operations of some NGOs,” Ndume stated.
He recalled a past security operation where an NGO was allegedly caught training individuals on how to use firearms.
“We have been wondering for years—aside from raids and kidnappings—where are these terrorists getting their funds? It’s worrisome. Now that a U.S. Congressman has openly spoken about it, we can’t dismiss it as just an allegation. It’s more than that. That’s why the Nigerian government and the National Assembly, especially, need to investigate and verify the veracity of such claims,” he added.
He further noted that 400,000 displaced persons from Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states are currently taking refuge in Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.
“When you look at these figures, it’s alarming. And when you analyze Boko Haram’s modus operandi, you begin to question whether they are receiving supplies from external sources,” he said.
The lawmaker revealed plans to raise a motion in the Senate on Tuesday to push for a formal investigation.
“This is a matter of urgent national importance. We need to set up a strong committee involving security agencies like the Office of the NSA, the DIA, and the DSS because this falls within their responsibilities. It’s not just about internal security,” he stated.
[NaijaNews]
President Bola Tinubu says the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) should prioritise the establishment of a combined maritime task force to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.
Tinubu spoke on Sunday at the 38th ordinary session of the assembly of the AU heads of state and government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Represented by Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, Tinubu proposed Lagos, Nigeria’s economic nerve, as the security outfit’s headquarters.
“The time has come for the African Union Peace and Security Council to prioritise the creation of a combined maritime task force for the Gulf of Guinea,” a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to Tibubu on information and strategy, quoted the president as saying.
“I wish to announce that Nigeria would like to host the headquarters of the task force in Lagos.”
Tinubu’s recommendation of a maritime task force comes on the same day that Nigeria signed an agreement with the AU.
The statement said Nigeria agreed to provide strategic sea lift services for AU peace support operations, natural disaster support, humanitarian actions, and personnel movement.
Under the agreement, the Nigerian Navy will provide a vessel for the operations on a cost-recovery basis.
Badaru Abubakar, the minister of defence, signed the agreement on Nigeria’s behalf while Bankole Adeoye, AU commissioner for political affairs, peace, and security, signed for the union.
The statement noted that the AUPSC had previously held a high-level meeting.
Tinubu expressed satisfaction at the decision to upgrade the Nigerian National Counter-Terrorism Centre to a regional counter-terrorism centre, which was one of the outcomes of the meeting.
The president also highlighted the insecurity affecting Sahelian countries grappling with democratic transition.
He blamed the worsening situation on the instability in Libya and urged the assembly to back initiatives to restore law and order in the country.
“It would not be out of place to explore the possibility of extending the inherent benefits of UN Security Council resolution 2719 to support AU peace support operations,” the president said.
In doing so, Tinubu added that the AU must try to prevent the increasing incursion of extra-continental forces, including private military companies, into African security matters.
The absence of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, at the All Progressives Congress (APC) mega rally in Kafanchan, Kaduna South Senatorial District, raised eyebrows, fueling speculation about his political stance.
Once considered the political mentor of the current governor, Uba Sani, El-Rufai’s no-show added to the intrigue surrounding the event.
Despite being highly publicized, the rally reportedly welcomed over 22 notable defectors from opposition parties and witnessed a significant turnout.
However, Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, who currently represents Kaduna Central in the 10th Senate, was absent and openly dismissed the gathering as a “rented crowd.”
According to him, the rally was merely a face-saving attempt by Governor Uba Sani to cover up the lack of genuine grassroots support.
Taking to Facebook on Saturday, Usman challenged the governor’s popularity, questioning why an election had not been conducted in the state to gauge actual support.
“APC is like Papalolo in Kaduna State. If you truly knew you had the support of your rented crowd, why didn’t you allow the conduct of election in at least one ward within the State?” he wrote.
He further pointed out that “even the governor could not cast his vote at his polling station during the time.”
[NaijaNews]
![[PRESS RELEASE] Nigeria’s First Lady Elected Member, OAFLAD Steering Committee](/media/k2/items/cache/17154d9910542b77c645145ef98d8357_M.jpg)
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has been elected as a member, Steering Committee of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), the highest decision making body of the organization.
This was at the 29th Ordinary General Assembly of the organization ongoing in Addis Ababa on the sideline of the 38th African Union Summit Ordinary Session.
She joins the 8- member Steering Committee as one of the two members representing West Africa. Other member nations elected include Sierra Leone whose First Lady is the new President of the Organization, Angola, whose First Lady is the Vice President, Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea and Congo.
She will serve in the new position for a two year tenure.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu who is already a strong voice within OAFLAD, the First Lady is expected to further carry the torch of the organization, driving its advocacy initiatives towards the realization of its 2025-2030 Strategic Framework.
SIGNED
Busola Kukoyi
SSA Media to the First Lady of Nigeria
[PRESS RELEASE] Obidient Family Eulogizes Pa Adebanjo, Condoles With Afenifere. Pa Ayo Adebanjo Was an Inspirational Obideient
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] Obidient Family Eulogizes Pa Adebanjo, Condoles With Afenifere. Pa Ayo Adebanjo Was an Inspirational Obideient](/media/k2/items/cache/7cffef1719efd980b8c7d0347a09071e_S.jpg?t=20250215_085212)
Pa Ayo Adebanjo Was an Inspirational Obideient
The news of the demise of the chieftain of the Pan Yoruba Socio-political Organization Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, struck us like a cyclone, still in sadness and great shock.
Pa Adebanjo is one of the pillars that the expectant New Nigeria is standing on. His legacies and pluck etched his name on the annals of history as a great countryman, with indelible proofs of patriotism and heroism.
Pa Adebanjo will forever be remembered as that selfless leader who sacrificed his lifetime as an upholder and proponent of true democracy and the Rule of Law. His commitment and steadfastness in leadership craftsmanship are reflected in the monumental achievement of the Afenifere organization.
Myself and the OBIDIENTS extend our condolences to his family, his friends, the good people of Ogun State, the Afenifere Organization and everyone he has left a lasting impact on their lives in our Nation.
It is our earnest desire that more people like Pa Adebanjo are birthed in our democratic space who will uphold the unity of our Nation and are willing to work tirelessly for the progress of a united victorious front as One Blessed Nation, our differences regardless.
With the likes of Pa Adebanjo on a united front, despite the dividing lines of language, race and religion, A New Nigeria is POssible.
May his soul rest in peace
Dr. Yunusa Tanko
National Coordinator
OBIDIENTS Movement
...says he was a patriot par excellence
It is with great sadness, that I received the news of the passing into glory of Chief Samuel Ayodeji Adebanjo, my brother, comrade-in-arms and political associate for upwards of 70 years.
His contributions during the struggle for Nigeria’s independence as well as during struggles for the restoration and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria shall remain indelible in the annals of Nigeria’s history. He was an unrelenting ideologue who fought for many noble causes under the auspices of Afenifere where he was once the Acting Leader.
Members of Afenifere family will greatly miss this fallen hero.
Chief Adebanjo was a custodian of positive values that define progressive politics in Nigeria. As a disciple of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, GCFR, SAN, he was committed to the principles of good governance, rule of law and the protection of fundamental rights of Nigerians. His advocacy for the restructuring of
Nigeria was borne out of the conviction that only a truly federal Nigeria, where justice and fairness are supreme, could fulfill the aspirations of the people.
I pray that God will grant the family the fortitude to bear this great loss
Chief Dr R. F Fasoranti ( OFR)
The Asiwaju Yoruba and The Leader of Afenifere.
Former Abia State Governor, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
In a heartfelt condolence message on Friday, Senator Kalu described Pa Adebanjo as a patriotic leader, a strong advocate for democracy, and a symbol of national unity.
Kalu, who is the lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District and also the Senate Committee Chairman on Privatization and South East Development Commission acknowledged the late statesman’s lifelong dedication to justice, equity, and good governance, noting that his contributions to Nigeria’s socio-political development would remain indelible.
“The passing of elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo is a great loss to Nigeria. He was a fearless leader who stood for truth and fairness at all times. His wisdom, courage, and commitment to national unity will be greatly missed,” Kalu stated.
The Senator extended his condolences to the Adebanjo family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, and all Nigerians who were touched by the late leader’s legacy. He prayed for strength for the bereaved and for the peaceful repose of Pa Adebanjo’s soul.
A potentially explosive situation is unfolding in Amede Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Enugu State, as the Commissioner Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development & Chieftancy Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo and Chairman Isi Uzo Local Government Area, Mr. Obiora Obeagu face allegations of attempting to impose a defeated candidate as Igwe.
The controversy centers on a 2019 election on September 5th, between Chief Simeon Mgborogwu Edeoga and Chief Emeoha Michael Ikechukwu. Chief Edeoga reportedly won with 619 votes, but Hon. Ogbodo and Hon. Obeagu seem to be disregarding the community's mandate.
The Amede community is urging security agencies to intervene, citing a pending court case. They warn that any attempt to disrupt peace will be met with resistance. The community also questions the legitimacy of the election, given the absence of a Town Union Executive for three years.
How can election take place where there is no town union Executive?
More...
U.S. Congressman Scott Perry has claimed that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has provided funding to terrorist groups, including Boko Haram.
Perry, a Republican from Pennsylvania, made this allegation during the first meeting of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency on Thursday, according to PUNCH.
“Who gets some of that money? Does that name ring a bell to anybody in the room? Because your money, your money, $697 million annually, plus the shipments of cash funds in Madrasas, ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Boko Haram, ISIS Khorasan, terrorist training camps. That’s what it’s funding,” Perry said.
Perry also said that USAID had reported a $136 million allocation for the establishment of 120 schools in Pakistan, claiming that there was “no evidence” that the schools were actually built.
“USAID spent $840 million in the last year, the last 20 years, on Pakistan’s education-related programme. It includes $136 million to build 120 schools, of which there is zero evidence that any of them were built. Why would there be any evidence? The Inspector General can’t get in to see them.
President Donald Trump has previously advocated for the dissolution of USAID, accusing the agency of corruption in a post on his Truth Social platform. Elon Musk, whom Trump appointed to head the Department of Government Efficiency, has also voiced criticism of USAID, alleging that it conducts rogue activities.
Musk has described USAID as “a viper’s nest of radical-left Marxists who despise America” and has promised to close it down.
Among his other accusations, Musk has suggested that USAID engages in “rogue CIA work” and has even “funded bioweapon research, including COVID-19, which resulted in the deaths of millions.”
Trump stated that DOGE would “dismantle government bureaucracy, reduce excessive regulations, eliminate wasteful spending, and reorganise federal agencies — crucial to the ‘Save America’ initiative. This will create significant disruptions within the system, affecting many who are tied to government waste!”
[News Central]
[PRESS RELEASE] Don't depart from the path of Justice", Pa Ayo Adebanjo's last word to me - Peter Obi Mourns
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] Don't depart from the path of Justice", Pa Ayo Adebanjo's last word to me - Peter Obi Mourns](/media/k2/items/cache/ddc36d8b3416e4638d02188b96933fed_XS.jpg)
The Labour Party leader and Presidential Candidate of the party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, is mourning the demise of his arch-supporter and the leader of the Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed at 96 years today.
Obi in lengthy condolences in X handle recalled Pa Adebanjo's words to him still stressing justice and equity
In the condolence, Obi said, "My family and the Obidient Movement got the shocking news of the passing on of our dear father and leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who was a great pillar in the struggle for a new Nigeria.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the family and the Afenifere organization.
"His death is a profound loss to Nigeria and to all who cherish justice, equity, and truth. As the leader of Afenifere, Pa Adebanjo remained a steadfast advocate for a united and progressive Nigeria. His unwavering commitment to fairness and his relentless pursuit of a better nation have left an indelible mark on our country's history.
"One thing my political journey in life taught me, for which I am eternally grateful to God is bringing me close to a few great minds who helped to shape my perception of this land as a great country.
"One such person is Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the quintessential Afenifere leader
"I remain deeply grateful for his support during my presidential campaign. His endorsement was not merely a political gesture but a testament to his belief in the ideals of equity and inclusiveness. "He stood firm in his convictions against all odds demonstrating his dedication to the greater good of Nigeria.
The last time I spoke with him, his words left a lasting impression: “Always stand on the path of justice.” That advice remains a guiding principle in my life, and I reaffirm my commitment to upholding it in honour of his memory. In my association with Pa Adebanjo, I come to appreciate Nelson Mandela's words, “I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.”
"As we mourn his departure, let us also celebrate a life well-lived in service to humanity and commit ourselves to upholding the values he so passionately championed.
"May his death not be in vain. Instead, let it serve as a renewed call to action for all who believe in justice and fairness. As we extend our condolences to his immediate family and the Afenifere organization, may we find solace in the enduring impact of his remarkable life?
Signed
Umar Ibrahim
POMR Spokesman
![[PRESS RELEASE] Chief Ayo Adebanjo Heads The Lord's Call At 96](/media/k2/items/cache/e00699fa3ee3c606aa490061e160b731_XS.jpg)
With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo.
He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025 at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96.
The foremost nationalist, elder statesman, distinguished lawyer, very distinct politician, apostle of true federalism, former organising secretary of Action Group and the national leader of Afenifere is survived by his 94 year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath.
The family is consulting with Papa's friends, associates, numerous interest groups across the length and breadth of Nigeria and beyond, to fine tune plans for a befitting funeral details which will be communicated in due course.
A condolence register is open at his residence in Lagos (8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos) and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode Ogun State.
SIGNED:
Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo)
Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo)
Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo
For The Family
Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has asked the senate to conduct the investigation into the missing 3,907 firearms behind “closed doors”.
Egbetokun’s request is contained in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on the floor of the red chamber on Thursday.
BACKGROUND
On Tuesday, the senate committee on public accounts queried the Nigeria Police Force (NFP) over the missing firearms.
The 2019 auditor-general of the federation report revealed that some firearms and ammunition were missing from the police armoury.
Egbetokun nominated Suleiman Abdul, an assistant inspector-general (AIG), to respond to the senators’ queries.
However, the explanation offered by the police representative was not satisfactory to the lawmakers.
Abdul had sought an executive session but was rejected by the majority of the committee members.
‘CLOSED DOORS PROBE WILL PREVENT MISINFORMATION’
In the letter, the IGP commended the senate for the investigation but called for a closed-door session in subsequent hearings.
Egbetokun said the probe is a “sensitive security issue,” and discussing it in the open would create a “wrong impression” in the minds of Nigerians and the international community.
“This is crucial to prevent misinformation and ensure national security,” he said.
Emphasising the need for an executive session in subsequent engagements with the police, Egbetokun said, “this will help prevent the spread of misinformation and protect national security interest”.
“It will also allow for more candid discussions and fact-finding,” he said.
Akpabio said the letter “speaks for itself,” adding that the senate would continue with the probe.
Earlier on Thursday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said some of the ammunition went missing during civil unrest and not during the tenure of Egbetokun.
[TheCable]