The family members of the deceased Pa Edwin Clark have shown concern that people are already approaching federal and state governments, groups, and individuals to beg for money to give their late father and patriarch a decent burial.
In a statement signed by Mr. Panaowei Clark, Chief Ebikeme Clark, and Miss Emomotimi Clark, the family rejected such individuals or groups and claimed that such a deal could not be done without their personal involvement.
Rejecting such individuals or groups, they made it very clear that nobody had been directed or nominated to act on their behalf.
The family indicated that, as much as they look forward to cooperation with the necessary stakeholders in agreement on the date and programming for their late father’s funeral, they hope for the understanding and cooperation of all concerned parties.
The statement goes on:
“Ever since the passing of our beloved father, Pa E. K. Clark, on 17th February 2025, members of our family have been playing host to numerous sympathizers and well-wishers who have been thronging his country home at Kiagbodo, Delta State, as well as his residences in Lagos and Abuja.
“We are indeed overwhelmed by the show of love from all and sundry who have identified with and commiserated with the family of Pa E. K. Clark during this trying time. Indeed, we deeply appreciate the federal government and the governors of various states for condoling with our family and for the moral and financial support accorded us in hosting our numerous visitors.
“We also commend the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Pan Niger-Delta Forum (PANDEF), Afenifere, Arewa, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Middle Belt Forum, among other socio-cultural groups, as well as other well-wishers too numerous to mention, for their show of solidarity.
“We are not unaware that, being a national figure, the planning and implementation of programs for the burial of our late father transcend our family, as it requires careful, thorough, and well-coordinated efforts by all relevant stakeholders.
“To this effect, it has become necessary to inform the general public that no individual or group has been mandated or nominated by the family of the late Pa E. K. Clark to approach governments at the federal and state levels, or groups and individuals, to solicit support in any form, discuss, or arrange for the burial of our late father without our direct involvement,” the statement said.
