The immediate past National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Alex Ogbonnia, has described the deaths of prominent statesmen Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ayo Adebanjo, and Edwin Clark as the end of an era in Nigeria’s political discourse.
Ogbonnia likened the trio to the “Three Musketeers” of Nigerian politics, stating that they were unwavering in their advocacy for restructuring as the only viable path to ensuring Nigeria’s corporate existence. He highlighted their relentless commitment to fiscal federalism, rule of law, constitutionalism, prudent leadership, an impeccable judiciary, social justice, and the fight against corruption.
Edwin Clark, a respected Niger Delta activist and leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025. His death followed closely after the demise of Afenifere leader Ayo Adebanjo on February 14. The two had previously mourned the passing of Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, late last year.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Ogbonnia lamented that their passing had left a leadership vacuum in Nigeria’s opposition politics. He recalled their dedication to championing equity and justice, condemning the state of governance, and consistently pushing for a restructured and prosperous Nigeria.
“The meetings of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), which brought together PANDEF, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Middle Belt Forum, were always hosted at Chief E. K. Clark’s residence in Asokoro. These gatherings shaped national discourse and held the government accountable,” Ogbonnia said.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s worsening socio-economic conditions, corruption, and reckless government borrowing, warning that future generations would bear the brunt of these challenges. According to him, Clark, Adebanjo, and Iwuanyanwu were voices of reason who stood against impunity, self-aggrandizement, and the violent attacks on communities by Fulani herdsmen.
Ogbonnia emphasized that the late leaders shared a vision of a Nigeria where justice and good governance would thrive. He recalled that Iwuanyanwu had actively supported the presidential bid of Peter Obi in the 2023 elections and maintained close ties with influential figures across the country.
He noted that their deaths signaled a turning point for Nigeria’s political landscape. “Their exit has created a huge vacuum, and without credible opposition, the country risks spiraling further downward. I weep that Nigeria may not be able to produce the likes of Clark, Adebanjo, and Iwuanyanwu in years to come,” Ogbonnia stated.
Reflecting on past meetings with the trio, he described their discussions as thought-provoking and filled with wisdom. He concluded by declaring that with the death of Chief Edwin Clark, it is nunc dimittis—the end of an era.