After three years in a UK mortuary, former Nigerian Senate President Dr. Joseph Wayas is set to be laid to rest on November 30, 2024, following a prolonged delay attributed to family disputes.
Dr. Dorn-Cklaimz Enamhe, Secretary of the Central Planning Committee for Wayas’ burial, confirmed the arrangements at a press briefing in Calabar. Wayas, who served as Senate President from 1979 to 1983, passed away at age 80 in a London hospital on November 30, 2021. His body was repatriated to Nigeria in July 2024 with the support of Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu and other supporters.
Governor Otu expressed his commitment to ensuring that prominent Cross River State natives who pass away abroad are brought back to their homeland for burial, highlighting the significance of honoring local heroes.
The funeral ceremony will commence at UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar and conclude with Dr. Wayas’ burial in his hometown of Bassang, Obanliku Local Government Area. The event is expected to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria, including current Senate President Godswill Akpabio, along with numerous political and public figures.
