Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has extended condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State over the passing of their father, Chief Edwin Clark at 97 years.

Governor Fubara said the tragic news of the death of Chief Edwin Clark, made public on behalf of the family by Prof C. C. Clark, is rather heart-wrenching, given the impact of such a loss.

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of our beloved father and leader, Chief Edwin Clark. Despite his age, he remained active, serving as beacon of hope and conscience to leaders in government.

“He kept in touch with national issues and did not cease from providing elderly counsel to leaders at various levels, in pursuit of responsible and responsive leadership in Nigeria.”

Governor Fubara noted that Chief Edwin Clark, as a courageous Ijaw leader, nationalist, and freedom fighter, demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to the unity of Nigeria, and boldly defended the rights of the minorities, especially Niger Deltans.

“He has left indelible footprints as a nationalist for the inspiring roles he played in the Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (MBLF), and as leader of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). I pray the Almighty God to grant the repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria.”

Governor Fubara also consoled the family, saying: “As you navigate this dark period, remember that you are not alone. May the Almighty God grant you the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss.”

The Rivers State Commissioner for Urban Development and Physical Planning, Rt Hon Evans Bipi, has eulogised Gen Gabriel Asabuja over his recent birthday celebration in Port Harcourt.
Bipi said Asabuja is worth celebrating following his numerous contributions and support to the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
He described Asabuja as a strong pillar of governance in Rivers State, adding that the Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning is happy working with him.
He noted that Asabuja’s position as a team leader of the Ministry’s taskforce has been amazing, saying the Ministry is proud associating with him.
The former lawmaker hinted that since Asabuja assumed office as leader of the taskforce, the Ministry has witnessed tremendous improvement.
Bipi said the Ministry will always stand by him to ensure that the dreams of the Governor Fubara-led government are achieved.
On his part, the celebrant, Gen Gabriel Asabuja expressed gratitude to God and the Commissioner for the honour done him.
Gen Asabuja also commended Governor Fubara for his tremendous and good leadership in the State, saying his group will continue to give the Governor maximum support in order to achieve more for Rivers people.
Gen Asabuja described Rt Hon Evans Bipi as one of the best brains working with the Governor, saying under Bipi, the Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning has shown capacity to leverage on the Governor’s mantra of Rivers First.
He said both the personnel of the Ministry, the Directors and adhoc staff are happy with his style of leadership.

The Engenni Simplified Leadership, a socio-political organisation in Engenni Kingdom of Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, has endorsed Governor Siminalayi Fubara for second term in office.
This was part of resolutions made available to newsmen at the end of its meeting at Eagle Island, Port Harcourt.
According to the group, the endorsement was in view of Governor Fubara’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of the State.
“Recognising his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of the State, the movement proudly endorses the Governor for a second term in office,” it said.
The group also expressed its unflinching backing and support to the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon Sokari Goodboy Sokari for his resilience, integrity and steadfast commitment in upholding democratic principles which, according to it, thwarted the attempt by former 27 lawmakers of the House to impeach Governor Fubara.
“The movement also expressed appreciation to the Majority Leader of the Rivers state House of Assembly and member representing Ahoada West in the House, Hon Sokari Goodboy Sokari for his resilience, integrity and steadfast commitment in upholding democratic principles, a situation that was instrumental in thwarting the ill-conceived impeachment attempt against Governor Fubara by the former 27 Assembly members on October 30,2023.”
Jointly signed by Hon Ezekiel Agiri, Leader of Ward 4; Jerry Egwu, Ward 1; Chief Dennis Warman,Ward 2; and Sunny Dressman, Ward 3, it also pledged to undertake a solidarity visit to the distinguished legislator to commend him for his exemplary service to the people of Rivers State.
The movement also passed a vote of confidence on   the leadership of the Ahoada-West Local Government Council led by its Chairman, Hon. Iyekor Ikporo and his vice, Hon. Onisojikume Ayonoadu  for their notable achievements within their first 100 days in office.
“According to the movement, “the strides made in executing impactful projects across the Local Government Area reflect their dedication to grassroots development. In appreciation, the movement resolves to pay a courtesy visit to these leaders to extend its congratulations and support,” it said.
It pledged  to seek an audience with Governor Fubara, to formally convey the collective support of the Engenni people to his administration.
“This engagement will also serve as an opportunity to articulate the developmental needs and aspirations of the Engenni community, ensuring that the region receives its fair share of government attention and resources,”it said.
The movement further reaffirmed its profound respect and confidence in the traditional institution of the Engenni people under the leadership of His Royal Majesty, King Moore MacLean Ubuo, Okilomu-Ibe III of Engenni as a way of acknowledging the critical role of traditional leadership in fostering peace, unity, and development.
The Movement pledged to collaborate closely with the royal institution in pursuit of sustainable progress for the Engenni nation.
It further said that it  remains committed to unity, progress, and effective collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to enhance the socio-political and economic wellbeing of the Engenni people.
According to the Engenni Simplified Leadership, the meeting was conveyed to deliberate on some critical issues affecting Engenni Kingdom and the broader Rivers State political landscape.

John Bibor