President Muhammadu Buhari, academics, politicians and other Nigerians have commiserated with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family on the death of Nigeria’s legendary Emeritus Professor of Literature, John Pepper Clark-Bekederemo.
Clark-Bekederemo who died two days ago at the age of 85 was renowned for his poems including, The Casualties, Night Rain as well as his plays and poetry on traditional Ijaw myths and legends.
President Buhari’s condolence message is contained in a statement issued by his media aide, Mr. Femi Adesina.
According to Buhari, the literary icon’s repertoire of published works depicts the hard work of a great man, devoted to a lifetime of writing, knowledge and promotion of the indigenous culture of the Ijaw nation.
The statement reads: “On behalf of the Federal Government, President Muhammadu Buhari extends the deepest condolence to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family on the passing of renowned writer and Emeritus Professor of Literature, Prof. John Pepper Clark.
“President Buhari pays tribute to one of Nigeria’s finest poets, dramatist and recipient of the Nigerian National Order of Merit Award for literary excellence, whose repertoire of published works depicts the hard work of a great man, devoted to a lifetime of writing, knowledge and promotion of the indigenous culture of the Ijaw nation.
“Acknowledging that Prof. J.P. Clark’s exit has, indeed, left an indelible mark in the literary world, President Buhari takes solace that his body of literary works, which earned him recognition and respect both at home and abroad, would continue to inspire upcoming Nigerian writers to pursue literary excellence and flourish in their chosen vocation.
“The President’s thoughts and prayers are with the family of the departed patriot, the government and people of Delta State and the literary community in the country.
“He prays for the peaceful repose of the soul departed.”
In his tribute, Prof Hope Eghagha of the University of Lagos described the passing of Clark-Bekederemo as a berthing of his earthly boat.
Eghagha described himself as the literary child of the deceased adding that Clark-Bekederemo put the name of Nigeria on the world canvass.
“Our own JP’s boat reached its last earthly berthing place today, October 13.
“He lived a highly poetic and dramatic life, filled with intense creative moments and output.
“He was of the first generation of writers to put the name of Nigeria on the world canvas. An icon, a grand old man of letters who will be sorely missed.
“May God console his wife Professor Ebun Clark and the children.
“We, his literary children, will continue to enjoy his legacy which will outlive all of us. His place in the pantheon of literary greats is assured!” he said.
Similarly, a playwright and professor of literature, Femi Osofisan paid tributes to his colleague saying he had a complex personality.
“He was an embodiment of contradictions in his personality, but what interests us is his talent as a poet and writer and conscience of society.
“He wasn’t a protest poet, but was very political in his writing. He was very concerned about the issues that pertain to society.
“We are going to miss him. I would personally miss him because he is my friend and mentor,” he stated.
In his condolence message, the governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki described the late academic as a “great academic, celebrated poet”.
“His literary exploits brought honour and great respect to Nigeria and his contributions to literature and education, in general, will outlive many generations,” he added.
For his part, the deputy senate president, Mr. Ovie Omo-Agege, described the deceased as “a literary colossus.”
“As we all mourn the transition of this great African to eternal life, our heartfelt condolences go to his dear family and our dear Papa, Chief Edwin Clark.
“Forever, the world shall recall the intellectual stature and contributions of Prof Emeritus John Pepper Clark-Bekederemo,” he said.
