By Samuel Ogude
The Senator -elect, Delta South Senatorial District, Hon. Joel-Onowakpo Thomas said, Chief Edwin Clark, an elder statesman and Niger Delta Leader is a leader of high repute and national icon who has contributed immeasurably to national growth and development of the country saying, God has kept him as voice for voiceless Nigerians to act as check to maladministration and oppression in the country.
Joel-Onowakpo stated this recently in Abuja in his tribute to Chief Clark’ s 96th birthday. According to the Senator -elect, the wisdom, integrity and leadership style of Niger Delta leader has helped in no small way to shape the fortune of the country’s historical base.
He said:” God has kept you as a voice to the voiceless Nigerians to act as a check to maladministration and oppression. Your wisdom, integrity and leadership style as a Niger Delta Leader have helped to shape the fortune of the nation historically”
According to Joel -Onowakpo, the elder statesman is a true icon in the Niger Delta region saying, his tireless dedication to the development and progress of the Niger Delta region in particular and the country in general has been an inspiration to many including he himself. According to him, Chief Clark’s contributions to the socio-economic and political development of Nigeria are immeasurable saying, as a journalist, lawyer and politician, he has worked tirelessly to uphold the rule of law, protect human rights and promote good governance to the benefit of all. He added that, Clark’s commitment to the Niger Delta struggle has been unwaving and has led to significant progress in the region.
According to Hon. Joel -Onowakpo, Clark’s vast knowledge and experience have made him an invaluable resource to the government, civil society organizations and the private sectors saying, his achievements and accomplishments have earned him many accolades including the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger(CON) and the prestigious Life Time achievement Award by the Nigerian Bar Association among others, attest to his noble services to humanity.
Hon. Joel Onowakpo therefore wished the elder statesman long life and God’s divine protection, saying, his (Chief Clark’s) exemplary lifestyle will continue to inspire generations unborn. He said as he(Chief Clark) celebrates this milestone on his 96th birthday, he celebrates his life and legacy just as he(Joel Onowakpo) joins Chief Clark’s family, friends and well wishers in giving thanks to God Almighty for keeping him healthy.
He said:” Your selfless services to the people of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole will always be remembered. I wish you good health, happiness, and continued success in all your endeavours. May your exemplary life continue to inspire generations to come. Happy birthday, our leader, Chief Edwin Clark!”.