Renowned Elder Statesman EK Clark Pays Tribute to Late Kalabari Monarch, King Prof. T.J.T Princewill
ABUJA/Nigeria: In a heartfelt tribute to the late Amanyanabo of Kalabari, King Prof. T.J.T Princewill, Chief EK Clark, a former Minister in the First Republic and convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), expressed his deep admiration for the monarch, describing him as “a perfect gentleman, imbued with dignity.”
Elder Statesman Clark mourned the passing of the revered King, highlighting the significant loss experienced by the academic community, the Ijaw nation, and Nigeria as a whole. He offered his prayers, beseeching God to grant the deceased monarch’s family and the Ijaw Nation the strength to bear this profound loss.
These sentiments were conveyed when Chief EK Clark warmly received Prince Tonye Princewill, Chief Dr. David Briggs, and Sir Opunabo Inko-Tariah, who paid a visit to his Abuja residence on Saturday night. The PANDEF leader, visibly elated and eager to lend his support, expressed his intent to personally attend the funeral. Moreover, he seized the occasion to advocate for unity among the Ijaw people, emphasizing that the King’s burial should serve as a catalyst for fostering greater unity within the community.
In a further display of respect and support, Prince Tonye Princewill, the son of the late King and Chairman of the Central Working Committee for the burial, visited Chief EK Clark to provide a formal briefing on the funeral arrangements. Acknowledging Chief Clark’s stature, Prince Tonye underscored the importance of a personal visit, inviting him to attend the funeral if circumstances permit.
Prominent non-indigenous leaders have also expressed their intentions to give King Prof. T.J.T Princewill a dignified farewell. During a courtesy visit, the Dan-Amanar of Dutse, Alhaji Nasir Danu, assured Prince Tonye Princewill of their support. Alhaji Danu recounted the King’s significant impact in northern Nigeria, pledging his presence and assistance to ensure a befitting farewell. Similarly, the Ooni of Ife and the Obi of Onitsha affirmed their commitment to honoring the late King’s memory, highlighting his enduring legacy as both an educator and a monarch.
King A.P Diete-Spiff, the Amanyanabo of Twon Brass and the first governor of old Rivers State, also extended his condolences and promised to attend the funeral alongside his cabinet. He spoke of King Princewill’s lasting impact and pledged to visit the Kingdom to offer his personal condolences to the bereaved family.
The passing of King Prof. T.J.T Princewill has left a void felt not only by the Kalabari community but by all those who had the privilege of knowing and interacting with this distinguished monarch. His legacy as a dignified and noble leader will continue to be celebrated and remembered.
