From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Elder statesman Edwin Clark, has reiterated his call for national unity, asserting, “Nigeria belongs to us all” during the Christmas service at his residence, by St James Anglican Church Asokoro.
He emphasized that any perception of being a second-class citizen undermines the collective identity of Nigerians.
Clark pointedly criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for continuing the nepotism seen during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, where appointments favoured specific regions regardless of qualifications.
“For eight years, Buhari decided to employ his people alone, whether qualified or not. Today, the situation has not changed.”
He recalled that when Lord Lugard governed Nigeria, he did not divide the country into north and south.
“We (Niger Deltans) have every right to cry; we are all one, no matter where we come from.”
Clark urged the church to preach oneness and inclusivity, calling for a more equitable management of Nigeria’s diversity, which he described as the nation’s greatest strength.
A special Christmas service took place at the residence of Pa Edwin Clark on December 25, 2024, gathering family and friends to celebrate the holiday with spiritual reflection and community. The event featured readings from the Bible, including Genesis 3:8-15, Isaiah 9:2,6-7, Luke 1:26-36, and John 1:1-14, which set the tone for the day’s message.
Venerable Ben Idume from St. James Anglican Church delivered a poignant exhortation titled “Christ Came and Gave Us Light,” emphasizing the significance of Jesus’ birth as a restoration of humanity’s connection with God. Idume reflected on the consequences of disobedience in the Garden of Eden and how Jesus’ arrival provided a pathway to eternal life, urging attendees to embody the light of Christ in their communities.
The service included traditional carols such as “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “Joy to the Lord,” and “Once in Royal David City,” creating a festive atmosphere. Edwin Clark expressed his joy for the service and gratitude for the prayers offered for his health and family, highlighting a special moment when his son, who had been away for 49 years, returned to read during the service.
General IBM Haruna also attended, paying tribute to colleagues who lost their lives in recent conflicts. He underscored the importance of unity among Nigerians, echoing Clark’s sentiments about national identity and equality. Clark reiterated that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens and called for greater inclusivity in governance.
The event concluded with prayers for Nigeria, asking for divine intervention to dispel darkness and bring about lasting peace and development. Attendees were encouraged to let their lights shine in their communities, reflecting Christ’s teachings through actions of love and unity.
Some notable personalities present at the Christmas service were Gen. IBM Haruna (retd), who led his family include his three children from Maiduguri to attend the service, Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Godknows Igali, retired permanent secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Employment and Information, Timiebi Koripamo Agary; national chairman of Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Peter Ameh, Samuel Ogbemudia Jr, the eldest son of the former two time governor of old Bendel State, late Samuel Ogbemudia, Dupe Jemibewon, wife of former Military Administrator and Minister of Police Affairs, David Jemibewon, families of Late Umaru Dikko, Mungonu, Ijaw women among others.