By Donald Kumun
The life and times of Wantaregh Paul Iyorpuu Unongo are a narrative woven with threads of selflessness, inclusivity, forgiveness, and unrelenting dedication to humanity. He was born in the Turan extraction in a humble Tiv community in what is today Benue State, North-Central Nigeria, Unongo’s life journey was marked by challenges that he converted into opportunities for personal growth and collective upliftment.
Known for his towering intellect, fierce patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, his passing marked the end of an era, leaving a legacy that resonates deeply with the ideals of service, unity, and forgiveness.
It is gathered at, on the threshold of the dawn of a new era in Benue state, Wantaregh specifically asked His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia to bury him in circumstances that will not be marked with mourning but rather, a carnival of some sort. The burial arrangement indicate that, Governor Alia has carefully imbibed this idea into the configuration of the ceremony.
Consequently, the decision of the Governor to key into Unongo’s burial program is not merely ceremonial but deeply symbolic. It underscores the governor’s recognition of Unongo’s immense contributions to the development of Benue State and Nigeria at large. It also signals a commitment to carrying forward the values that defined Unongo’s life.
Early Life and Education.
Paul Iyorpuu Unongo was born into modest circumstances, yet his early life bore the unmistakable marks of greatness. Growing up in the agrarian Tiv society, he imbibed the values of hard work, honesty, and communal living. His intellectual brilliance was evident early, earning him opportunities for education that many of his contemporaries could only dream of. Unongo’s pursuit of knowledge led him to become one of the first Tiv elites to acquire higher education at a time when such achievements were rare and revolutionary.
As a man of deep intellect, Unongo’s education transcended the acquisition of degrees. He developed a profound understanding of philosophy, history, and politics, equipping him to become a formidable voice in national and regional affairs. His academic prowess and cultural rootedness would later define his approach to leadership and public service.
Sterling Qualities.
The qualities that defined Paul Unongo were as rare as they were exemplary. First among these was his selflessness. Throughout his life, Unongo exhibited an uncommon ability to prioritize the collective good over personal gains. The JULADACO group of companies he established were comprehensively used to extend a hand of support to all members of the society with any iota of bias in terms of tribe, political and religious affiliations. These chains of companies became a beacon of hope to the greater majority. Whether in his political engagements or private endeavors, he was driven by the conviction that leadership is a trust to be discharged with integrity and humility.
Unongo was also a man of immense courage. He spoke truth to power at great personal risk, undeterred by the consequences of his convictions. His fearlessness was matched by his wisdom, which he used to navigate the complexities of Nigeria’s political landscape. His ability to blend intellect with empathy made him a leader who inspired and actually commanded respect and admiration across diverse groups.
Perhaps most striking was his capacity for forgiveness and inclusivity. Despite experiencing betrayal and marginalization at various points in his life, Unongo refused to harbor grudges. In most of the elections He contested for, he suffers undeserving defeats due to some unholy gang-ups especially during the second republic when he contested for the Governorship of his homeland.
He was a unifier who believed in building bridges rather than walls, fostering dialogue among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups. His inclusive approach to leadership earned him the trust of both allies and adversaries, making him a rare figure in a polity often characterized by division and acrimony.
A Legacy of Selfless Service.
Unongo’s life was a testament to the power of service. As a statesman, he was instrumental in advocating for the development of the Middle Belt region, particularly his native Benue State. He was a founding member of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), where he championed policies and initiatives aimed at addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the region. His advocacy for education, rural development, and social justice, reflected his deep concern for the well-being of ordinary Nigerians.
In the political arena, Unongo’s contributions were significant and enduring. He was a Minister of Steel and Development in the Second Republic under President Shehu Shagari, where he brought his characteristic diligence and integrity to bear on national governance. It was during his time that many of the steel companies in Nigeria were built. His leadership was marked by a commitment to transparency and accountability, values that remain sorely needed in contemporary Nigerian politics.
He was an unparalleled mobilizer of human and material resources which were needed to be deployed into developmental efforts.
Unongo was also a cultural ambassador for the Tiv people, promoting their rich heritage while advocating for their integration into the broader Nigerian society. According to a prominent oral poet, Mr. Tarker Number 1 Golozo, at the installation of the fourth Tor Tiv, late Dr. Alfred Akawe Torkula, Mr. Unongo dressed the best in Tiv traditional attire of his forefathers. As the custodian of the Tiv oracle, late Unongo ensured that such was preserved and given due reverence.
His efforts to highlight the contributions of the Tiv to Nigeria’s development underscored his belief in the importance of cultural pride and unity.
The Power of Forgiveness and Inclusivity
One of Unongo’s most remarkable traits was his ability to forgive and seek reconciliation. In a political environment often marred by bitterness and vendettas, he stood out as a man who understood the transformative power of forgiveness. He demonstrated that true leadership involves rising above personal grievances to focus on the greater good as well as the larger picture.
Unongo’s inclusive approach to leadership was rooted in his belief that Nigeria’s diversity is a strength rather than a weakness. He consistently advocated for policies that promote unity and equitable development, emphasizing the need for dialogue and mutual respect among Nigeria’s various ethnic and religious groups. His ability to engage constructively with people from different backgrounds earned him widespread respect and cemented his legacy as a unifier.
Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s Role in Honoring Unongo
The decision of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, to actively participate in Paul Unongo’s burial program, is a reflection of the deep respect and admiration the late elder statesman commanded. Governor Alia, a leader known for his humility and commitment to the welfare of his people, recognizes the symbolic and practical importance of honoring Unongo’s legacy.
By keying into the burial program, the Governor not only pays tribute to a great son of Benue State, but also signals his commitment to upholding the sterling qualities and values that Unongo strived, lived, and embodied. It is a gesture that reinforces the governor’s vision of inclusive governance, anchored on the principles of unity, justice, and development.
The Governor’s involvement also highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the ideals that defined Unongo’s life. It serves as a reminder to the people of Benue State, and Nigeria at large, of the need to embrace selflessness, forgiveness, and inclusivity, in their individual and collective endeavors.
Unongo’s Enduring Influence.
The legacy of Wantaregh Paul Iyorpuu Unongo, extends beyond his lifetime. His contributions to the development of Benue State and Nigeria, continue to inspire new generations of leaders and citizens. His life serves as a powerful example of how one individual, armed with courage, integrity, and a sense of purpose, can make a difference in the lives of many.
Unongo’s emphasis on education as a tool for empowerment, remains particularly relevant in today’s Nigeria, where access to quality education remains a challenge for many. His advocacy for rural development and social justice continues to resonate in a country grappling with issues of inequality and marginalization.
Moreover, his commitment to forgiveness and inclusivity offers a blueprint for resolving the conflicts and divisions that plague Nigeria. His ability to rise above personal grievances and work towards the greater good, provides a powerful lesson in leadership and humanity.
The life of Wantaregh Paul Iyorpuu Unongo was a shining example of what it means to live for others. His sterling qualities set him apart as a leader of rare distinction. His legacy of service, unity, and justice, remains a guiding light for the people of Benue State and Nigeria at large.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges of nation-building, the life and times of Paul Unongo, offer valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and the power of reason and commitment to redeem the people from the shackles of poverty, illiteracy, diseases and other forms of debilitating circumstances of existence.
As Unongo is laid to rest in his permanent resting place at Unongo Village this Saturday, 30th November, 2024, his memory will continue to inspire hope and courage in the pursuit of a more just, egalitarian society, and breed a new set of leaders who will lead to united and indivisible Nigeria.
Donald Kumun, is the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Print Media, and writes from Makurdi, the State Capital of Benue, Nigeria.
