The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) says it received with deep sorrow, news of the passing of another great Northern leader and elder, Wantaregh Paul Unongo.
The CNG in a statement by its spokesperson, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman and made available to THESTORIES on Wednesday, noted that the death of Chief Unongo, a former Convener of the Northern Elders Forum on Tuesday, 29th November, 2022 is another monumental loss to Nigeria and the North after that of Amb Yusuf Maitama Sule, Danmasanin Kano.
“Wantaregh who died at age 87 in Jos, following a prolonged illness, was indeed a great statesman whose leadership, statesmanship and commitment to the protection of the northern values and promotion of national unity was unmatched.
“A man of peace, Wantaregh Paul Unongo’s inspiring presence at every turn of event and untiring efforts helped to keep the flames of our dedication to the interests of the people of the North and Nigeria alive.
“His leadership, sacrifice, statesmanship, patriotism and unwavering commitment to the interests of the people of Northern Nigerian, and citizens of Nigeria as a whole has few parallels in our nation.
“With the death of Chief Unongo, the North has certainly lost another great leader and father whose leadership, sacrifice, statesmanship and commitment to the interests of the people of the region and Nigeria generally would be greatly missed.
“The CNG wishes to join the millions across the globe in condoling his family, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Governor of Benue State, the Tor Tiv, the Northern Elders Forum, people of Benue State, and entire Northern Nigeria for the passage of this great statesman.
May God grant them the fortitude to bear this monumental loss in these trying times,” the statement reads.
