On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, formally welcomed the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, to Benue State.
The Vice President's visit was to participate in the Executive Valedictory Session honoring the late Wantaregh Paul Iorpuu Unongo. This event was held at the New Banquet Hall, Government House, in Makurdi, and was attended by prominent figures such as the Chairman of the Northern Governors' Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya; former Senate President Bukola Saraki; Leader of the Northern Elders Forum, Professor Ango Abdullahi; and former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbeh, among other distinguished federal and state officials.
Senator Shettima, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Government, extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Benue State, reflecting on the loss of Wantaregh Paul Unongo.
He described the deceased as a paragon of unity, humility, and love, commending his indelible contributions to the unity of Nigeria. The Vice President characterized Unongo's legacy as a guiding beacon of hope for the people, particularly in navigating future challenges.
Professor Ango Abdullahi, representing the Northern Elders Forum, acknowledged the deceased's virtues of love and humility, highlighting his pivotal role in uniting and advancing the Northern Elders Forum's mission. Additionally, Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, and Audu Ogbeh expressed their sincere condolences to the family and the people of Benue State, recognizing the exceptional qualities of the late Wantaregh Paul Unongo.
In his welcoming address, Governor Alia expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honoring the family of the late Wantaregh Paul Unongo and the Benue State Government by dispatching Senator Shettima to share in their moment of grief.
In the concluding remarks, Hon. Fidelis Unongo, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, and son of the deceased, extended his appreciation to the community for the respect and honor afforded to his father, even in death.
Wantaregh Paul Iorpuu Unongo, who passed away on November 29, 2022, will be laid to rest on Saturday, November 30, 2024, in his hometown of Tse-Unongo Kwaghngise Anule Abela, Kendev Tiev, Turan, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.
