In accordance with the Vanguard report, Alhaji Musa Saidu, a well-known Arewa leader from the South, has harshly condemned Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence for their assertions that Chief Edwin Clark is a factor in Rivers State’s political unrest. Alhaji Saidu declared the organization to be nonexistent and incredulous, with no authority in the public domain.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
In his defense of Chief Clark, Alhaji Saidu emphasized the elder statesman’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s development and unity. “Chief Edwin Clark remains a highly respected and patriotic nationalist,” Saidu declared.
He reminded the public that Chief Clark was one of the key figures, alongside Chief Harold Dappa-Biriye, who fought for the establishment of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). This landmark achievement was driven by a desire to address the region’s developmental challenges and promote equity in resource distribution.
Alhaji Saidu expressed his disbelief upon reading the group’s allegations in a national newspaper, noting that the authors of the publication avoided disclosing their names. He attributed this to their understanding that they represented a faceless body, allegedly sponsored by political interests intent on tarnishing Chief Clark’s reputation.
“They cleverly ensured their names were not in the publication because they are a faceless body,” Saidu remarked, accusing the group of being politically motivated in their attempts to drag Chief Clark into the contentious politics of Rivers State.
Saidu also highlighted Chief Clark’s longstanding commitment to national unity, emphasizing his positive relations with northern Nigeria. “Chief Clark has always stood on the side of truth and justice in this country, and he remains a friend to the North,” he stated.
Condemning the group’s actions, Alhaji Saidu remarked, “It’s a faceless, sponsored group used to hurl insults. They don’t realize they attacked the wrong person this time. Chief Clark is a man who has contributed immensely to the unity of this country.”
In reflecting on his personal connection to Chief Clark, Saidu said, “As someone close to him, I served as an aide to Chief Harold Dappa-Biriye, and Chief Clark was his deputy. I know him very well. Together, they fought for the creation of the NDDC through the South-South People’s Conference (SSPC). If Chief Clark advises the NDDC on matters, he has every right to do so.”
Saidu’s remarks underscore the deep respect that Chief Clark commands across the country, as well as the lengths to which some political actors may go in an attempt to undermine his legacy.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
