Nigeria Governors' Forum Honors Legacy of Pa Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark

18 Feb

by Bathandwa Samfumfana 16 Comments

The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) is currently in mourning following the loss of two influential figures, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, whose passing marks the end of significant eras for the South-West and South-South regions of Nigeria. Their efforts in political and social advocacy left indelible marks on the nation, earning widespread respect throughout their long lives dedicated to service.

Pa Ayo Adebanjo: A Pillar of Afenifere

Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96 on February 15, 2025, was more than just a leader; he was a beacon for many in the South-West through his work with Afenifere. This socio-political organization, deeply rooted in championing the interests of the Yoruba people, found in Adebanjo a passionate advocate and resilient strategist. Under his guidance, Afenifere became a platform not only for regional advocacy but also for unity and progress, embodying Adebanjo's commitment to democratic principles and equity.

Adebanjo's leadership was instrumental in navigating challenging political landscapes and ensuring that the voices of his people were heard on the national stage. Known for his integrity, he tirelessly pursued policies that supported regional autonomy and reflected the cultural values of his community, ensuring they were part of the broader national dialogue.

Chief Edwin Clark: Defender of the Niger Delta

Chief Edwin Clark, who passed away at 98 on February 18, 2025, was a stalwart figure in the South-South, most notably through his leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). Clark's life was a testament to his dedication to the welfare of the Niger Delta, a region whose complex socio-economic issues he worked tirelessly to address.

Clark's leadership was characterized by an unyielding commitment to justice and development for the oil-rich region, advocating for better infrastructure, environmental protection, and an equitable share of resources. His efforts in peace-building and conflict resolution were particularly critical in managing the region's delicate dynamics, earning him respect as a key negotiator and leader.

In recognizing the loss of these two great statesmen, the NGF highlighted how their enduring legacies will continue to inspire future generations. Their passing is indeed a monumental loss not just to their respective communities but to the entire nation, reminding everyone of the importance of unity, dialogue, and persistent advocacy for development.

The NGF extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, their supporters, and the people of Ogun and Delta States. The leaders' work in fostering peace and understanding across regions stands as a testament to their lifelong devotion to the betterment of Nigeria.

16 Comments

Dinesh Gupta
February 20, 2025 AT 02:25

yo so pa adebanjo and chief edwin clark died? lmao guess the old guard finally kicked the bucket. who even remembers them anymore?
Shalini Ambastha
February 21, 2025 AT 20:03

their work quietly shaped so many lives. peace and dignity in leadership is rare now. we should carry their example forward without needing applause
Amanda Kelly
February 22, 2025 AT 04:38

Honestly, these so-called 'statesmen' were just regional power brokers. Nigeria doesn't need tribal elders clinging to legacy. It needs structural reform, not eulogies
Jessica Herborn
February 22, 2025 AT 05:02

i mean... if you really think about it... their entire legacy is built on the illusion of unity... but nigeria is fundamentally broken... and no amount of old men talking will fix it... just saying
Lakshmi Narasimham
February 23, 2025 AT 18:02

you dont build nations with speeches and titles you build them with infrastructure and accountability these men did nothing but talk while the people starved
Madhuri Singh
February 24, 2025 AT 23:13

lol imagine being 96 and still being relevant. someone actually did something for once. not like today's politicians who just take pics with goats
Amanda Dempsey
February 26, 2025 AT 10:53

Legacy? Please. These men benefited from a broken system. Now they're dead and suddenly they're heroes? That's the problem
Ruth Ellis
February 28, 2025 AT 07:30

Why are we honoring tribal elders instead of focusing on national unity? This is exactly why Nigeria stays divided
Peter Novák
March 1, 2025 AT 00:27

The romanticization of regional leadership without systemic accountability is intellectually indefensible and morally irresponsible
Siphosethu Phike Phike
March 1, 2025 AT 06:33

These men were giants 🙏 their work didn't end with their passing... it lives in every child who now believes change is possible 💪
Mitchell Ocran
March 1, 2025 AT 10:12

You know who really benefits from these eulogies? The same elites who keep the system rigged. This is performative mourning. The oil still flows, the children still starve
Todd Gehrke
March 3, 2025 AT 06:01

I'm so tired of these so-called 'heroes'... they never did anything real... just talked... and now they're dead... and everyone's crying... but the system hasn't changed one bit... WHY DO WE KEEP DOING THIS TO OURSELVES?????????????
Allison Brinkley
March 5, 2025 AT 03:48

The institutionalization of regional patronage under the guise of cultural advocacy constitutes a structural impediment to national cohesion and economic modernization
Ghanshyam Kushwaha
March 5, 2025 AT 06:20

all this talk and still no roads no power no jobs just more funerals
eliana levi
March 6, 2025 AT 18:22

we need more people like them... not less... they didn't just talk... they showed up... and that's rare now
Brittany Jones
March 7, 2025 AT 22:50

Funny how the moment someone dies you suddenly remember they did something... when they were alive you ignored them... classic