What was meant to be a private academic engagement turned into a carnival of love on Tuesday as students of Moses Orsho Adasu University scrambled to catch a glimpse of Thomas Tyolumun Unongo, the PDP Senatorial Candidate for Benue North-East (Zone A).
Unongo had quietly entered the university premises in a private car, accompanied only by his Campaign Director-General, Rt. Hon. Terkaa Ucha, in a deliberate bid to avoid the mammoth crowd that usually heralds his appearances across the state. He opted for his latest Land Cruiser jeep for a low-profile entry.
However, the moment the sleek vehicle pulled into the campus, it caught the attention of students who stood still, gazing curiously at who would alight. As soon as Unongo stepped out, there was a thunderous ovation, first from students of the Department of Religion and Philosophy.
Within minutes, word spread like wildfire, and legions of students from different faculties besieged Unongo, with some climbing on shoulders and others stretching just to touch or catch a glimpse of him. The private engagement, which was scheduled with a select group of academics from Zone A, was immediately disrupted by the surging crowd.
Despite the stampede, Unongo managed to make his way through the ecstatic students to briefly engage Prof. Alloysious Ihua. His Campaign Director-General was, however, forced to reschedule all other engagements with the university dons for another day.
Before leaving, Unongo addressed the students, thanking them for their love and assuring them of quality representation that will prioritize education, youth empowerment and security for all. He later posed for several group photographs with students who chanted his name and echoed the “Kwande Agenda” mantra.
Observers said the massive outpouring of love is a reflection of Unongo’s rising goodwill and grassroots campaign activities across Benue State, especially among the youth population ahead of the 2027 elections.
