Calabar— The Central Planning Committee for the burial of the former Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas, GCON, has officially announced funeral arrangements, scheduled for November 30, 2024. The announcement was made today at a press conference held at the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Center in Calabar, Cross River State NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
Addressing the media, Dr. OC Enamhe, Secretary of the Central Planning Committee and Convener of the ‘Who is Who in Northern Cross River Forum,’ expressed profound gratitude for the efforts that have finally enabled Dr. Wayas’ remains to be returned to Nigeria, nearly three years after his passing in the United Kingdom. Dr. Wayas, who served as Senate President from 1979 to 1983, was a celebrated figure known for his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic foundations and his commitment to national unity
The repatriation of Dr. Wayas’ remains was made possible through the dedicated support of Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, and the ‘Who is Who in Northern Cross River State Forum,’ alongside other key contributors. Dr. Enamhe extended heartfelt appreciation to the Governor, emphasizing that his intervention ensured a dignified return for the revered statesman.
“His Excellency’s commitment to honoring Rt. Hon. Dr. Joseph Wayas underscores the administration’s respect for the contributions of our leaders and is a testament to his dedication to preserving the dignity of our state’s great sons,” Enamhe stated.
Dr. Enamhe also acknowledged the assistance of the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Obot Akpabio, whose logistical support included arranging transportation of Dr. Wayas’ remains from Abuja to Calabar, before their final journey to Obanliku, the late Senate President’s hometown. “This act reflects Sen. Akpabio’s profound respect for Dr. Wayas’ legacy and his dedication to national unity,” he said.
The Basang Nation of Obanliku, represented by Chief Sylvanus Anyagwu, was also praised for their collaboration with the government and for playing a significant role in the preparations.
Of particular note was the instrumental role played by the ‘Who is Who in Northern Cross River Forum,’ which Dr. Enamhe described as “the driving force” behind the successful repatriation of Dr. Wayas’ remains when the process seemed uncertain. The organization’s dedication to honoring Dr. Wayas through this endeavor was praised as exemplary.
The funeral ceremony will commence on November 30, 2024, with additional details about the Service of Songs, Commendation Service, and Final Burial Rites to be released in the coming week. The Central Planning Committee has invited all who admired Dr. Wayas to partake in honoring his legacy, describing the event as an opportunity to celebrate the life and achievements of a statesman whose impact on Nigerian politics and Cross River State endures.
“We look forward to the dignified farewell that our late Senate President so richly deserves,” Dr. Enamhe concluded.
The forthcoming burial of Dr. Joseph Wayas is expected to be a solemn tribute to a leader remembered for his wisdom, compassion, and relentless pursuit of democratic ideals in Nigeria.
