President Muhammadu Buhari and former President Goodluck Jonathan has extolled the virtues of former Information Minister, Chief Edwin Clark on the occasion of his 92nd birthday anniversary.

In his tribute to Chief Clark, who served as Information Minister during the regime of General Yakubu Gowon, President Buhari noted “even if you don’t agree with the elder statesman sometimes, you must acknowledge his patriotism and commitment to peace.”

In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and publicity, Garba Shehu, Buhari said: “Peace building is one of the greatest contributions we should expect of our elders, and I am proud that Chief Edwin Clark has played this role remarkably during trying times in our country.’’

He described the nonagenarian as a man of strong convictions who doesn’t hesitate to speak his mind on national issues and added ”this gentleman expresses his mind without malice, one of the outstanding virtues of a statesman that he is.”

“While felicitating with you on this joyous occasion, accept my best wishes and deepest goodwill of my government. You have served your country with distinction and untainted record.

”You should be proud of this legacy. The country would always look up to you to tap from your fountain of wisdom”, the President said

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Jonathan described him as a crusader for equity and justice.

In a goodwill message he personally signed, Jonathan noted that Chief Clark has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development, adding that the nonagenarian has continued to work for the nation’s unity and progress.

A statement by Ikechukwu Eze, the former President’s spokesman further described Chief Clark as a respected leader and statesman who has been at the forefront of peace-building initiatives in the country.

The message read: “I join your family members and other well-wishers to congratulate you on your 92nd birthday.

“I am grateful to God for blessing Nigeria and the Niger Delta with someone like you.

“Your patriotism and commitment to nation-building is evident in your legacies both as a public servant and as a private citizen.

“You made significant contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development while serving the nation as a regional and federal commissioner in different political dispensations and you have continued to serve her as a foremost leader and statesman.

“Even in old age you have remained committed in your advocacy for equity, resource and environmental justice, especially in the Niger Delta.

“You have been at the forefront of different  peace-building initiatives with a view to building a united and prosperous nation.

“You have remained a role model to the younger generation and an icon of service and sacrifice.

“May God Almighty who has blessed you with age, strength and wisdom continue to grant you sound health and multiply His grace upon you as you celebrate.”