Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom
By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –
The immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom has lamented the passing of two elder statesmen and respected figures in Nigerian history, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, describing it as huge losses to the country.
A statement by the media aide to the former Governor Ortom, Terver Akase quoted Ortom as saying the two nationalists have left indelible marks on the nation through their lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and good governance.
The statement said Pa Adebanjo was an esteemed nationalist who, as the leader of Afenifere, lived a life marked by enviable commitment to a more equitable and progressive Nigeria adding that Pa Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96, made selfless sacrifices and contributions to the economic and political development of the country, right from his time as the Organising Secretary of the Action Group and as a prominent figure in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), one of frontline groups that fought for the return of democracy to Nigeria.
According to the statement, Ortom sad that Pa Adebanjo was reputed for his frank opinions on issues, stressing that the late elder’s voice for justice and equity would be sorely missed.
He said Chief Edwin Clark, who passed away at the venerable age of 97, has built a towering legacy of patriotism through his public service journey beginning with his time as a Federal Commissioner for Information, where he played a pivotal role at a critical era in the country’s history.
“As the Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and a leading figure in the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, Chief Clark was an unrelenting advocate for regional and national unity. As Commissioner for Education in the old Mid-Western Region and as a Senator, he displayed uncommon commitment to development. Throughout his lifetime, Chief Clark was dedicated to mediating peace and fostering understanding among communities in the Niger Delta region. His patriotic efforts contributed significantly to national development and the advancement of human rights.”
Ortom revealed that Chief Edwin Clark would be remembered for many great moments, his initiatives and respect for the rights of fellow human beings and extended deep condolences to the families of the two nationalists and prayed that God should grant their souls eternal rest.
