Dr.-Doodei-Week:-A-Beacon+of-Leadership-in-Honoring-the-Legacy of-Pa-Edwin-Kiagbodo-Clark

Dr. Doodei Week: A Beacon of Leadership in Honoring the Legacy of Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark

By Dave Ikiedei Asei
Niger Delta Progress Reporters – May 12th, 2025

Introduction 

In a compelling demonstration of leadership, commitment, and reverence for Ijaw heritage, Dr. Doodei Week, the Central Zone Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), led a formidable mobilization of Ijaw stakeholders and community members to pay tribute to the late nationalist and elder statesman, Pa (Dr) Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. The commendation service, held in Bayelsa State, was a moment of solemn unity, reflection, and a call for continuity in the advocacy for minority rights championed by the late icon.

Arrival of a Nationalist’s Remains: A Moment of Solemnity and Respect

The day began with a powerful show of unity and respect as Dr. Week and other dignitaries gathered at the Bayelsa State International Airport to receive the remains of Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. Accompanied by members of the Ijaw National Congress and other prominent Ijaw organizations, Dr. Week ensured that the reception reflected the true honor deserved by a man whose legacy had spanned decades of tireless service to the Ijaw Nation and Nigeria at large.

Joining Dr. Week at the airport were prominent figures such as Nigeria’s former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan; the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri; former Governor and current Senator, Henry Seriake Dickson; renowned diplomat Amb. Dr. Boladei Igali;  Rt Hon. Obolo Bubou, the leader of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, activist Ann-Kio Briggs; traditional rulers; senior government officials; and a wide array of leaders from across different sectors of the society.

Ijaw House Commendation Service: A Gathering of Tributes and Unity

Following the airport reception, the convoy of dignitaries, INC officials, and community members moved to the symbolic Ijaw House in Yenagoa for a deeply moving commendation service in honor of Pa Clark. The event was attended by a cross-section of Ijaw leaders and well-wishers who came together to reflect on the extraordinary life and contributions of a man who gave his all for the liberation and advancement of minority groups in Nigeria.

Several high-profile personalities paid glowing tributes to Pa Clark during the service. Among them were former President  Goodluck Jonathan, Governor Douye Diri, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, INC President Professor Benjamin Okaba, PANDEF Chairman Amb. Boladei Igali, and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) President Jonathan Lokpobiri. The Bible reading was poignantly delivered by the first son of the deceased, a symbolic gesture that tied the personal and public elements of Pa Clark’s life together.

Each tribute echoed a consistent theme: Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark was not merely a political figure or regional voice; he was a titan of justice, equity, and a relentless advocate for the voiceless. His advocacy extended beyond the Ijaw people to all minority ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, emphasizing his role as a pan-Niger Delta and pan-Nigerian figure of unity and courage.

Dr. Doodei Week: Mobilizing the Ijaw Spirit for a Greater Cause

Amidst the dignitaries and tributes stood the decisive leadership of Dr. Doodei Week. Known for his consistent activism and mobilizing strength within the Ijaw Nation, Dr. Week once again rose to the occasion by ensuring a strong and dignified turnout of IYC members and INC officials. Under his direction, the Central Zone of the INC coordinated logistics, communication, and transportation for youths and community leaders to participate actively in the ceremony.

Dr. Week's presence at every stage of the day’s proceedings—from the reception at the airport, to the convoy to Ijaw House, and ultimately to the journey to Kiagbodo—symbolized his unwavering commitment to Ijaw unity and historical continuity. His role was not limited to attending; he actively led and inspired. His actions reaffirmed that leadership, especially in times of collective mourning and reflection, must be about connection, legacy, and vision for the future.

Kiagbodo Awaits: A Final Journey to a Hero’s Resting Place

Following the commendation service, the body of Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark was transported to his hometown of Kiagbodo in Delta State for the final rites. This journey signified not just a return to his roots, but also a symbolic passage for the Ijaw Nation to recommit itself to the values Pa Clark lived and died for—justice, integrity, service, and unity.

Dr. Doodei Week and his team ensured that the spirit of the Ijaw Nation remained present and visible throughout this transition. By personally leading members of the IYC Central Zone and liaising with other community leaders, he maintained the dignity and decorum required of such an important cultural moment.

A Call to Unity and Continuity

Throughout the series of tributes and engagements, a resounding message persisted: the Ijaw Nation must remain united. Every speaker emphasized that although the void left by Pa Clark is vast and difficult to fill, the best way to honor him is to continue his advocacy for minority rights, regional development, and national inclusion. In this regard, Dr. Week's leadership stands out as an embodiment of that continuity.

Under his watch, the IYC and INC in the Central Zone have played increasingly active roles in the sociopolitical advancement of the Ijaw people. His style of leadership—consultative, action-oriented, and grounded in cultural pride—has set a standard for a new generation of Ijaw leaders.

Conclusion: Honoring the Past, Guiding the Future

As the events shift to Kiagbodo for the final funeral rites, the Ijaw Nation moves forward not with despair, but with renewed purpose. The commendation service and accompanying ceremonies are not merely moments of grief—they are milestones in the ongoing journey of a people determined to build upon the foundation laid by icons like Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.

Leaders like Dr. Doodei Week are ensuring that this foundation is not only preserved but strengthened through unity, mobilization, and purposeful engagement. His role in the commendation service reflects more than event coordination—it reflects a deep understanding of leadership rooted in culture, responsibility, and legacy.

More updates are expected from Kiagbodo tomorrow, as the Ijaw Nation prepares to bid final farewell to a father, freedom fighter, and national hero