Elder statesman and the National Leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Edwin Clark has expressed outrage over a recent military raid on his country home in Kiagbodo Local Government Area of Delta State. The raid was reportedly in response to the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama.
Clark who vehemently condemned the military’s actions, says he desires to live out his remaining days peacefully. He warned of potential repercussions should anything untoward happen to him, indicating that such events would fuel long-lasting trouble
The Ijaw leader recounted the distressing incident, revealing that a significant number of armed soldiers arrived in five trucks, accompanied by flying drones scouring the premises. The soldiers, according to him, forcibly entered various buildings on the property, even disrupting individuals going about their daily routines.
Among those affected was the late Ambassador Akporode Blessing Clark’s household, with soldiers rudely interrupting his son’s private moment. According to him, personal belongings, including phones, were confiscated, and individuals were subjected to interrogation.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Clark lamented the lack of communication with Delta State authorities during the raid.
While he recanted facing similar aggression in 2018, He recalled a similar incident at his Abuja residence in which he deemed the authorization of these raids as both disrespectful and illegal, given his extensive service to the nation spanning nearly seven decades.
The Ijaw leader however said someone, the Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Army’s Division in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, apologised on behalf of the army for the raid.
Clark stated that he is committed to peace but issued a stern warning against any attempts to undermine his safety, as there will be consequences for such actions.
