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David Mark Urges Tinubu to Immortalize Clark, Adebanjo • Pa Clark ‘s a Moral Compass- Akpabio
Senator Mark noted that Clark and Adebanjo may not have seen a Nigeria of their dreams but they have laid a solid foundation for future growth and development.
Former President of the Senate, Senator David MarkSenator Mark on Tuesday, urged President Bola Tinubu to immortalize Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, for their selfless services and contributions to Nigeria.
Senator David Mark hopes that the ideals of patriotism, equal opportunities, unity, peace, and progress which the departed elder statesmen advocated will inspire Nigeria’s future growth.
The former Senate boss also consoles the immediate families, governments, and people of Ogun and Delta States just as he urged them to find solace in the credible legacies left behind by the two elder statesmen.
David Mark lamented over the demise of two elder statesmen and patriots: former Federal Commissioner for Information,
“Their demise marks the end of an era thus, creating a void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape,” Mark stated.
Senator Mark described Clark and Adebanjo as the “last of the conscience of the nation, who tirelessly fought for a progressive Nigeria of equal opportunities for all.
“Both elder statesmen were united in their quest for an egalitarian society, free from oppression and marginalization.
” Senator Mark added that their exit is painful and regrettable, especially at this time when Nigeria needs men of good conscience and valour to address the numerous challenges.
However, Senator Mark noted that Clark and Adebanjo may not have seen a Nigeria of their dreams but they have laid a solid foundation for future growth and development.
He spoke truth to power, even when it was inconvenient, because he understood that leadership is not about comfort—it is about duty
Similarly, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in a deeply felt condolence message, described Pa Clark’s demise as a monumental loss to Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and all who cherish unity, fairness, and national progress.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, a renowned statesman, nationalist, and Ijaw leader.
His dedication to Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in the hearts of those who knew him. As a nation, we have lost a true patriot and a champion of justice.”
At 97 years old, Pa Clark stood as a bridge between generations—his life a testament to resilience, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the promise of Nigeria.
From his early days as a councillor, to his service as a federal minister, to his revered role as a political father and advisor to President Goodluck Jonathan, he was not just a leader—he was a moral compass, reminding us all of the responsibility that comes with governance.
He was a warrior for the Niger Delta, a fearless advocate for equity and resource control, and an unrelenting defender of the oppressed.
He spoke truth to power, even when it was inconvenient, because he understood that leadership is not about comfort—it is about duty.
“Pa Clark’s remarkable life was marked by strength and an undying commitment to the unity of this country.
His voice, though now silenced, will echo in the annals of our history, urging us always toward justice, fairness, and national cohesion.
” Beyond his national impact, I remember with deep gratitude his unwavering support for me, especially when I visited to seek his blessing and endorsement in my bid for the Senate Presidency.
His counsel was always rooted in wisdom, his encouragement a reflection of his deep commitment to responsible leadership.
In a moment now filled with sorrowful reflection, I recall that just a week before his passing, I sent emissaries to check on him, never imagining that it would be the last time we would reach out to him in this world.
I did not know that he was preparing for a greater journey, leaving behind the toils of this earth for the eternal peace of the better world beyond.
On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, and the entire Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, PANDEF, the people and government of Delta State, and every Nigerian who knew and loved him.”
News
World Bank projects Nigeria’s urban population to reach 264m by 2050
According to the report entitled ‘Multi-sector analytical review and pathway to transformation’, Nigeria’s urban population has grown exponentially over the last 65 years – from just under seven million in 1960 to over 128 million in 2024, with nearly half the urban population living in slums.
• Lagos Business District
The World Bank says that people living in Nigerian cities will over the next 25 years reach 264 million from the current 140.3 million people.
The Bank made the projection in its Global Economic Prospects report, released yesterday, also forecasts that the Nigerian economy will grow by 4.4 percent in 2026 and maintain that pace in 2027.
In the report, Nigeria is expected to be the third most populous country in the world, after China and India
According to the report entitled ‘Multi-sector analytical review and pathway to transformation’, Nigeria’s urban population has grown exponentially over the last 65 years – from just under seven million in 1960 to over 128 million in 2024, with nearly half the urban population living in slums.
It is projected that 70 percent of the population will live in urban areas by 2050, with cities at the centre of the country’s economic future.
News
JAMB 2026 UTME/DE forms on sale from January 26
The Board stated that eligibility is tied to age, noting that, “Only candidates who will not be less than 16 years old by 30th September, 2026 are generally eligible to apply/be considered.”
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board ( JAMB) has announced the commencement of the sale of application documents for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination and Direct Entry admissions for the 2026/2027 academic session.
“The period of registration for UTME candidates, including those from foreign countries, is from Monday, 26th January, 2026 to Saturday, 28th February, 2026,” said JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
In a statement on the Board’s official X handle last night, Oluyede said ” Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria for the 2026/27 academic session.”
The Board stated that eligibility is tied to age, noting that, “Only candidates who will not be less than 16 years old by 30th September, 2026 are generally eligible to apply/be considered.”
JAMB added that candidates less than 16 years old by 30th September, 2026 will have to undergo an intensive evaluation to determine their eligibility for a waiver. Such must have scored not less than 80% in each of UTME/ALEVEL, PUTME, SSCE and in the exceptional candidate assessment.
“The UTME results of the underage candidates will be released only at the conclusion of the complete evaluation process.”
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep condolences to the family of former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo, over the passing of their matriarch, Chief (Mrs.) Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo, who died at the age of 100.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Tuesday, Governor Abiodun described the demise of Mama Onabanjo as the end of a glorious era, noting that she lived a highly exemplary, fulfilled, and distinguished life devoted to God, family, and humanity.
The Governor said that although the loss of a mother is always painful, regardless of age, Mama Lucia’s transition at 100 is also worthy of celebration, given her impactful life and enduring legacy.
According to him, Mama Onabanjo stood firmly by her husband, the late Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, through his historic struggles for democracy, human rights, and social justice in Nigeria.
He said:“After a glorious epoch in which she joined her husband, our Papa, Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, in the fight for democracy, the delivery of its dividends on a massive scale, and the advancement of human rights and social justice, Mama has now been reunited with Papa in glory.
“Mama was a treasure and a source of joy to all who knew her. She consistently supported us with her prayers and goodwill, spreading joy, comfort, and hope to everyone around her.
“I commiserate with the Onabanjo family, even as I celebrate them for the great gift that Mama was to all of us.
“She stood by her husband through thick and thin and raised children and grandchildren who are today highly distinguished in diverse fields of human endeavour, breaking records and contributing meaningfully to society.
“We bless the Lord for her long and fulfilled life, her legacy of love, strength, deep faith, and commitment to development.
“We will miss her warmth, her wise counsel, her passion for progress, and her prayers. May the Good Lord grant her eternal rest in His bosom.
”Governor Abiodun prayed that God would grant the Onabanjo family, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
World Bank projects Nigeria’s urban population to reach 264m by 2050
JAMB 2026 UTME/DE forms on sale from January 26
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