Nigeria’s elder statesman, Edwin Clark, has expressed gratitude for the condolences extended by genuine political leaders over the passing of Hajia Dada Habi Yar’Adua, the matriarch of the Yar’Adua family, who died at 102. However, he sharply criticized the “hypocrisy” of some politicians, singling out Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in particular.
Clark, mourning the loss of Hajia Dada, described her as a woman of immense wisdom and compassion who raised notable figures such as former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Maj. Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua.
He recalled Abubakar’s 2007 visit to Hajia Dada during his presidential campaign, praising the respect shown to her despite her being the mother of his political rival. Clark urged Abubakar to reflect on that respect now that she has passed.
In a statement, Clark said: “Without being immodest, I hesitate to extend recognition to chronic Nigerian hypocrites, among whom Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is at the forefront. I must recognize and appreciate the genuine political leaders who sincerely offered condolences. However, while others plot to politically subdue the family of the deceased, it’s hard for me to discern where Atiku Abubakar stands in this matter.”
Clark reminded Abubakar of his close relationship with the Yar’Adua family, noting his 2007 visit to Hajia Dada, which was a rare gesture of respect toward the mother of a rival candidate. He urged Abubakar to reflect on the respect he once had for the family and questioned his actions in subsequent years.
“After the victory of Musa Yar’Adua in 2007, I wrote an open letter to Atiku, urging him to let go of bitterness in respect of his long-standing relationship with the family. But driven by his ambition to rule Nigeria, he disregarded my advice and continued with court actions.”
Clark condemned Abubakar’s current role in leading delegations to mourn Hajia Dada, questioning his sincerity. “Today, some of us are still alive to witness the same person leading delegations to mourn a woman he did not show respect to while she was alive. Wonders shall never end,” Clark remarked.
He concluded by urging political leaders to place the interests of Nigerians above personal ambitions, expressing hope for the country’s unity and progress. “I believe in the survival of this country with trust in one another. There are many genuine Nigerians who sincerely care about the families of the deceased. This is the group I trust in, even as I age.”
Clark also took a moment to comment on the recent success of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, which he said had lifted his spirits during recent health challenges. “On a lighter note, the success of the Super Eagles over Benin Republic helped me recover from my health condition on Saturday, September 8, 2024. That is the kind of Nigeria we want, regardless of our region or state of origin,” he added.
