Leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Edwin Clark, has urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly implement the 2014 National Conference Report to reunite the Igbos and restore their pre-civil war status.
Clark made this appeal during a courtesy visit by a 10-man delegation of Igbo leaders, who congratulated him on his 97th birthday, celebrated on May 25 earlier this year. The delegation was led by former Police Service Commission (PSC) chairman, Simon Okeke.
Clark’s call aligns with a recent appeal by The Patriots, led by Emeka Anyaoku, urging Tinubu to convene a constituent assembly to draft a “people’s democratic pluralistic constitution” for Nigeria.
Emphasizing Nigeria’s unity, Clark warned against ethnic-based appointments by leaders, particularly presidents, describing such actions as dangerous for the country. He also expressed sorrow over the passing of the late President-General of Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo, Emmanuel Iwuayanwu, noting his loss as a significant blow to the Igbos, the Southern and Middle Belt regions, and all Nigerians. He prayed for God’s comfort for Iwuayanwu’s family, Ohaneze, and everyone affected by the loss.
Expressing surprise and joy at the visit, Clark conveyed his condolences to the Igbo leaders, stating his actions stem from a belief in the equality of all human beings. He advised against idolizing those who appoint officials, urging appreciation without a slave-like mentality.
Clark encouraged the Igbo leaders to maintain their dignity, recalling the contributions of past Igbo leaders like Jaja Wachuku, Nigeria’s first respected Minister of Foreign Affairs. He criticized any excessive reverence for appointments, stressing that Igbos appointed to national positions should see themselves as fully qualified and not subservient.
Earlier, Okeke, on behalf of the delegation, praised Clark’s selfless leadership in the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), which represents the Middlebelt, South-East, South-South, and South-West regions. The delegation thanked Clark for consistently speaking out against discrimination and injustices faced by the Igbos in Nigeria, praying for his continued health and strength to advocate against marginalization and oppression.
Godknows Igali, former ambassador to Scandinavian countries under President Umaru Yar’Adua in 2007, joined Chief Clark in receiving the delegation. Igali commended the resilience and ingenuity of the Igbo people, recalling his experience with one of the delegation members during his tenure as Nigerian Consul General to Cameroon. He encouraged them to uphold their resilient spirit.
