TheCable

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed its condolences to the family of Paul Unongo, former minister of steel development.

Unongo, a minister in the second republic and a former chairman of the NEF, died on Tuesday at the age of 87.

In a statement on Wednesday, Ango Abdullahi, convener of NEF, praised Unongo for his service to the country, adding that his impact on northern communities remains relevant till date.

“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,” the statement reads.

“He served Nigeria in many capacities with great devotion, and was 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.

“He was the natural successor to the late Danmasanin Kano and remained an active member of the forum until his death.

“The forum conveys its condolences to his family, the Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, the Tor Tiv, people of Benue State, the entire Northern community, and the Nigerian state.

“May God reward him for his services to Nigerians and humanity.”