The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), described the death of Wantaregh Paul Unongo as a huge loss to the north and Nigeria at large.
A statement signed by the forum’s convener, Professor Ango Abdullahi, in Abuja, on Wednesday, prayed that God reward him for his services to Nigerians and humanity.
The statement said: “Paul Unongo’s life was a study in patriotism and activism. He was a vanguard of the Zikist Movement and rose through the political ladders of pre-independence and post-independence challenges and opportunities with distinction, shaped by a searing intelligence and a character that was rare.
“Paul Unongo served Nigeria in many capacities as the Minister of Iron and Steel and Chairman of NPP in the Second Republic.
“He was a founding member of the Northern Elders Forum “whose loyalty and commitment to his and other northern communities has remained a reference point.”
Wantaregh Paul Unongo was the former Convener of Northern Elders Forum who had also deputized for Amb. Yusuf Maitama Sule, Danmasanin Kano.
“He was the natural successor to the late Danmasanin Kano and remained an active member of the Forum until his death.”
He died on Tuesday, 29th November, 2022 in Jos, Plateau state after a prolonged illness. He was 87.
The Forum conveys its condolences to his family, the Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, the Tor Tiv, people of Benue State and the entire Northern community and Nigeria.
