Nigeria Set To Bid Farewell To Ex Senate President

The Central Planning Committee for the funeral of Nigeria’s former Senate President, late Dr. Joseph Wayas has concluded arrangements for his interment in Cross River State, southern Nigeria.

In a heartfelt address during a press conference in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, the Secretary of the committee, Dr. Dorn Cklaimz Enahme said the funeral service has been scheduled for November 30, 2024.

According to Enahme, “Dr. Wayas, who passed away in the United Kingdom where he was undergoing medical care nearly three years ago, was a significant figure in Nigeria’s political landscape and a devoted leader during his term as Senate President from 1979 to 1983.”

“The funeral has been slated for November 30, 2024. We invite all to join us in honouring his life, legacies and contributions to our country. This is a time to reflect on his remarkable journey, to celebrate his accomplishments and give thanks for indelible impact he made on Nigeria and Cross River State,” he urged.

Enahme, who is also the Convener of the “Who is Who in Northern Cross River Forum,” expressed deep gratitude to those instrumental in making the repatriation possible after prolonged logistical challenges.

He gave special recognition to Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and the leader of the Basang nation, Mr. Sylvanus Anyagwu for their pivotal roles in bringing the remains of Dr. Wayas back home.

Enahme also said that further details on the service of songs, commendation service and final burial rites would be published next week.

Also speaking, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Nsa Gill stated, “the national burial will be held at the U. J. Esuene stadium because, late Dr. Joseph Wayas was an elder statesman, icon of Nigeria’s democratic values that believed in national unity.

“We decided to hold the funeral at the stadium because all of Nigeria including friends of our country will be attending the service. Immediately after, arrangement has been made to airlift the remains for interment in his country home at Obanliku local government area, where close family members would participate,” he added.

Mercy Chukwudiebere