The Governor of Cross River State in south-south Nigeria, Professor Ben Ayade has described the demise of Nigeria’s second republic Senate president, Senator Joseph Wayas as a monumental loss to the State and country.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Cross River State governor, Mr. Christian Ita indicated that Dr Wayas died in the early hours of Tuesday in a London hospital.
Governor Ayade said that Wayas left indelible footprints on the sands of time.
“As a state, Cross River is in pains as we mourn the passing of our illustrious son. He was a rare gem. Dr Wayas’ demise is indeed a monumental loss to our dear state and Nigeria.
“Dr. Wayas contributed to the deepening of Nigeria’s democratic ethos through his robust and vibrant leadership of the upper legislative chamber. Since his retirement from active politics, the former Senate President had been playing a fatherly and stabilising role in the politics and affairs of our state,” Ayade said.
To the family of the deceased, the governor said, “we are with you in this moment of grief. We have you in our hearts and prayers.”
Life of Joseph Wayas
Dr. Joseph Wayas was born on May 21,1941 in Obudu and was an alumnus of Higher Tottenham Technical College, London; West Bromwich College of Commerce, Science and Technology amongst others.
He joined the Federal Government of Nigeria in 1969 to 1972 and served as Commissioner for Transport in the then South Eastern State.
In 1979, Wayas was elected to the Senate on the platform of the National Party of Nigeria and appointed Senate President.
He alongside former President Shehu Shagari left office in 1983 after a military coup and went into exile.
Joseph Wayas returned to Nigeria in 1987 and was held in detention for a time after which he held few political appointments.
Confidence Okwuchi
