Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya joined other prominent Northern leaders to honour the late elder statesman and former Chairman of the Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), Paul Unongo, who passed away two years ago.
The tribute event, held in Makurdi, Benue State, was part of a week-long series of activities leading up to the final internment of the elder statesman.
Speaking at the event, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described Unongo as a teacher, leader, and unifier whose exemplary life continues to inspire many.
Inuwa said, “He came, he saw, and he conquered. He was more than just a leader; he was a teacher and mentor to many.
“On behalf of the Northern Governors Forum, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. While we mourn his passing, we also take this moment to celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the enduring legacy he has left behind, a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Governor Inuwa recalled Unongo’s service as convener of the Northern Elders Forum, during which he was known for his steadfast stance on addressing critical issues such as peace, security, agriculture, education, and economic development of the region.
He also praised Unongo’s commitment to justice, and fairness, and his ability to mobilize support and promote unity among diverse people of the North.
Shettima in his address, extolled Unongo as a champion of regional harmony who devoted his life to the unity and progress of the north and Nigeria as a whole.
He described the late former NEF chairman as a revered elder statesman and patriot whose life was dedicated to justice, development, and the greater good of the nation.
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, lauded Unongo’s patriotism and commitment to a united Nigeria.
“He had a deep faith and taught us what it means to love Nigeria and to have a united northern region,” Alia said.
The current convener of the Northern Elders Forum, Prof Ango Abdullahi, shared a deeply personal reflection on his over 70-year friendship with Unongo, dating back to their first meeting in secondary school in 1953.
“He lived and died for the cause of truth and justice. Losing him is a personal loss of a friend of over 70 years. This is the kind of man the country should have,” Abdullahi said.
Former Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, speaking on behalf of Benue elders, described Unongo as an intellectual giant and an inspiration to many.
“He was a very exciting person with a broad mind. He had a deep understanding and was not a tribalist or sectional advocate,” Ogbeh said.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki echoed similar sentiments, noting that Unongo’s greatest wealth lay in his compassion and generosity of spirit.
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