Past and present Nigerian leaders have hailed elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark on the public presentation of his autobiography titled: “Brutally Frank”.
President Bola Tinubu who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume at the public presentation in Abuja, extolled Edwin Clark for the numerous roles played by Clark and encouraged Nigerians especially the youths to emulate his sterling qualities.
Tinubu said the current hardship being faced is for a moment, adding that palliatives have been rolled out and more are still being rolled out adding that “there is hope that tomorrow will be better than today.”
The book titled, “Brutally Frank’ chronicled the journey of Clark as a classroom teacher, a commissioner, minister, and national activist spanning over seven decades.
In his remarks, General Yakubu Gowon who chaired the occasion in his welcome address, described the author as a foremost Nigerian who has done his part in the growth and advancement of the Nigerian state.
The former Head of State described the book as, “A very useful chronicle of what had transpired in Nigeria during his (Clark’s) lifetime of service. I am hopeful that the younger generations will be better informed on our experiences which has brought the country to what it is today, on which our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu represents the centre of our common aspirations of peace, unity and progress.”
Also speaking, former President Goodluck Jonathan described Clark as one of those Nigerians whose record of service is worthy of emulation by the citizens particularly the younger ones.
“Chief Clark is one of those few Nigerians who names should be written in letters of gold. I say this not because of he is my father. This book is a collection of history that will act as useful guide to young people,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi state labeled Clark a mentor to everyone, “A man and leader who has nothing against anyone.”
On his part, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio represented by the Minister of Works designate, Dave Umahi called on leaders to emulate the elder statesmen, stating that his devotion to the cause of justice was what stands him out from the pack.
Former Edo State Governor, Oserheimen Osunbor who reviewed the 28-chapter book commended Clark for his rich memory but not without pointing out some flaws ranging from factual errors to wrong spellings.
He said, “At times, the language is intemperate such as using the word ‘stupid on page 359.This is obviously in anger but not appropriate in a book.
“The most serious shortcoming is the author’s copious reproduction, reference to and reliance on the statements and opinions of other people many of which may be unreliable and unverifiable,” he said.
Others present at the book launch included former and serving National Assembly members; serving and former governors; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and other first class monarchs across the country.
