Vice President Arc Mohammed Namadi Sambo has described elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark as an epitome of truth and nationalist of great repute.
Speaking on Sunday, at the reception to mark the 86th birthday of the elder statesman in Abuja, Vice President Sambo said, “As a patriot, Chief Edwin Clark believes in the sovereignty, unity, indissolubility, and the indivisibility of this nation as such, he puts Nigeria first in all that he does.”
“He is always by the truth and stands by it. His sense of devotion to national integration is unrivalled,” he added.
Vice President Sambo used the occasion to implore Nigerians particularly the up coming generation to take cue from his exemplary life.
“For our generation and generations yet unborn there is a lesson for us from the life of this great sage, who at 86 is not only active but also full of life. We must all lead a life of hard work, devotion, honesty, sincerity love for mankind and above all the fear of the Lord as exhibited by the exemplary life of Chief Edwin Clark,” he stated. ”
Arc Sambo while commending Pa Clark for his laudable contributions to national development also extended the appreciation of President Goodluck Jonathan and the good people of Nigeria to the foremost nationalist for his invaluable advice and wise counsel.
“We appreciate your unique role and contributions towards peace and prosperity of this nation and pray for a healthier, more prosperous long life and showers of heavenly blessings so that we can continue to tap from your wise counsel.”
“The saying goes that “people who have the most birthdays live the longest”. This evening, as we celebrate your birthday we wish you a day that is profoundly happy and richly blessed and many more happy years to come,” the Vice President posited.
In his remarks the celebrant, Chief Edwin Clark, who was visibly excited by the showers of encomiums from several dignitaries, thanked God for good health and continued guidance stressing that he remained fulfilled.
He used the opportunity to urge fellow elder statesmen and all Nigerians to rally round the President Jonathan administration and give them the needed support.
He appealed to all public office holders to be selfless in their service to the nation, not to be intoxicated by the office they hold and also shun corrupt enrichment.
Chief Clark prayed God for peace and tranquility to continue to reign in the country.
Highlight of the event was the cutting of the birthday cake and presentation of trophy to Akwa Ibom State winner of a football competition organized in honour of the celebrant.
Dignitaries that graced the occasion include the Governor of Delta State Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, National Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, members of the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council members and several others from across all walks of life and every nook and cranny of Nigeria and beyond.
