“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 hardwork of a great man, devoted to a lifetime of writing, knowledge and promotion of the indigenous culture of the Ijaw nation,” said a statement by Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity), Femi Adesina.
Acknowledging that Prof. J.P. Clark’s exit has, indeed, left an indelible mark in the literary world, Adesina added that 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”.