By Olusegun Olanrewaju
Senator Jarigbe Agom-Jarigbe has described the late Second Republic Minister for Power and Steel, Wantaregh Paul Unongo as a pan-Nigerian and the greatest promoter of the country’s democracy.
The senator, who represents Cross River North in the 10th assembly, said Unongo was a perfect gentleman who staunchly believed in the march towards achieving Nigeria’s true destiny as a great nation.
Agom-Jarigbe stated this at the funeral rites of the former minister in Kwande local government area of Benue State at the weekend.
Unongo, who had held several political and public offices, was, until his death, the chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).
Accompanied by his friend and associates, including John George, Agom-Jarigbe said the death of the elder statesman was not just a loss to the good people of Benue State but the entire Nigeria, adding that “death has robbed Nigeria of a committed patriot.”
According to him, “Paul Unongo was a true patriotic Nigerian and a quintessential politician who believed in the ideals of democracy.
‘’We will miss him but will continue to uphold the ideals he stood for in life.”
He expressed sympathy and offered prayers to the immediate family and the good people of Benue State, urging them to remain strong during this challenging time.
Some of the dignitaries who attended the funeral include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, as well as other top government functionaries and Nigerians from all walks of life.
