It was pomp and ceremony as the remains of late Dr Joseph Wayas was interred on Saturday at Sankwala in Obanliku Local government area of the state with Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River promising that the state will uphold former Senate President's legacy.
Wayas died in London on November 30, 2021 and buried on Saturday, November 30, 2024.
Speaking at the funeral at Sankwala in Obanliku local government area of northern Cross River, Otu said Wayas, throughout his life time, lived for live and unity of Cross River and the nation at large and would always be tempered.
He described the former Senate President as a monumental figure whose impact in the state and across the nation remains enduring.
"Today, amidst the brightness of the day, we are shrouded in sorrow in Cross River. The passing of the Distinguished Senator Joseph Wayas is a profound loss.
"It is not merely about the duration of one's life but the profound influence one has on their era.
"On behalf of Cross River State, we pay tribute to you for placing us on the national stage. We shall forever cherish your accomplishments and strive to follow in your footsteps," he concluded.
The Governor extended his sympathies to the grieving family, assuring that the state would uphold the legacy of love and unity that Wayas epitomized throughout his life.
Similarly, President Bola Tinubu, who said that late Wayas lived for for unity of the nation, described him as a peaceful man whose public service records remains indelible.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Tinubu urged Nigerians, particularly the political elites, to emulate the virtues of the late former Senate President.
Senator Jarigbe Agom-Jarigbe, representing the North Senatorial district, in his condolence message, extolled Dr. Wayas’ remarkable contribution to Nigeria’s democracy and development, saying "the late icon’s leadership as Senate President during the Second Republic and his commitment to national unity and progress.
“Senator Wayas lived a good life and was there for his people which is why we have all come down to honor him due to his remarkable achievements."
The final obsequies of late Wayas were attended by dignitaries from walks of life, including Senators Jarigbe Agom-Jarigbe, Eteng Williams, former governor of the state, Prof. Ben Ayade and Minister of State for Trade and Commerce, Sen. Owan Eno.
Others dignitaries from across include the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku and his counterpart of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, former governors, members of the State Executive Council, members of the State House of Assembly, councils chairmen and councillors.
Wayas journey to finally resting place commenced on Friday with his lying-in-state at the Senate chamber and the U. J Esuene Stadium in Abuja and Calabar respectively.
During the night of tributes at the U.J Esuene Stadium, the President of the 10th Senate, Godswill Akpabio had urged the bereaved family to eschew peace, love and unity in order to sustain the legacies which the deceased left.
"Now that the government of Cross River has taken the bull by the horns to bring his remains to touch this land, this should be the beginning of unity, peace and true love in that family so that, truly we can all honour the legacies Wayas left behind.
"Wayas sterling qualities would continue to inspire generations yet to come because as a Commissioner for Transport in the South Eastern State from 1972 to 1974, he showed signs of a man who has the physical and mental preparedness to liberate the people of this country," Akpabio said.
Wayas died at the age of 80 and was the President of the senate between 1979 and 1982.
He was also among the founding members of the National Party of Nigeria in the late 70s and in 1979 contested for and won the Northern Senatorial seat where he was consequently elected as a Senate President.
Judex Okoro, Beagle News
