If you are referring to the orginal Clip (with the round scroll wheel), there was a common problem with the solder joints connecting the wires to the battery failing. That could be what’s going on here.
They can be re-soldered, if you want to try and pry the casing apart and you’re handy with a small-tipped soldering iron. I beleive you can find photos & instructions on disassembly of the Clip over at the Anythingbutipod forum.
