96 Gun Salute to an Unrelenting Nationalist, E.K. Clark at 96, By Kayode Ajulo
Shola Oshunkeye
Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark
Kayode Ajulo
The sublime and evergreen words of Williams Shakespeare “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts; a justification therefrom alludes to a man who truly, justly, consciously and genuinely in his time has played a million and one parts as a distinct Nigerian lawyer, renowned political figure who is a symbol of Nationalism. A distinctive personality, global asset in public leadership, both within and beyond the shores of this great country. A man of distinct wisdom, inquired and sought by several governments, as an official appointee and otherwise for the contribution of his esteemed quota to the development of the country, since the days of General Yakubu Gowon up till today, an unrelenting fighter and comprehensively a builder of not just men but structures as well the founder of Edwin Clark University.
Papa’s life aptly illustrates a charge made by Williams Shakespeare that ‘Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them’.
The existence of this rare gem and living legend radiates greatness that’s truly, largely and chiefly exists in his DNA, not only since birth, but as evident in his accomplishments.
This would further be appreciated looking through his enviable pedigree and intimidating profile of this man of valor who was once 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. Also, as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1983, and today, indisputable leader of the Ijaw Nation among others.
Knowing and having a rare privilege of being closely associated with His Eminence, Senator, Chief, Sir, Dr, Edwin Kiagbodo Clark for about a score of years has not only aided in grooming me, but has laid within me an imprint of this great personality in my career as a Legal Practitioner, as some of his enormous principles and unquenchable thirst and foresight till date still guide in some of my approaches to becoming greater daily.
Sire, on this day, of your 96th birthday anniversary, I join the conglomerate of your children, associates and the world at large to celebrate you, the man of the moment, the voice to the voiceless, the peace in the turbulent storm, the quantum of social justice and the definition of a worthy patriot.
PIn accordance to the words of the holy Bible in Psalm 90:12 “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom”. I pray that your wisdom will never diminish as you age, that the Almighty who has kept you this far will further preserve you with long life, good health, continuous joy and all-round blessings in accordance to your heart desires.
Happy Birthday, G-O-G-O-R-O-G-O. May your light continue to shine!
