The Senate, during Thursday’s plenary session, honoured the memory of Nigeria’s Second Republic Senate President Joseph Wayas who died on November 30, 2021, aged 80.
Leading the valedictory session, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reflected on the life and contributions of the late Wayas. He outlined Wayas’ journey through life and public service.
Born on May 21, 1941, in Basang, Obudu, Cross River State, Wayas pursued his early education at Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha. He later travelled to the United Kingdom, where he studied at Higher Tottenham Technical College, London; West Bromwich College of Commerce, Science, and Technology, Birmingham and Aston University.
Upon his return to Nigeria, Wayas worked as a manager between 1960 and 1969 for several companies in Nigeria and the UK.
He joined the Federal Government from 1969 to 1972.
From 1972 to 1974, he served as commissioner for transport in the south-eastern state, now Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.
With the return to civilian rule in 1979, Wayas was elected to the Senate under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) platform, representing the Ogoja Senatorial District. He was subsequently appointed Senate President.
In his tribute, Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP/Bayelsa) said: “He had an opportunity to preside over the chamber in the second republic, an assignment he carried on with dignity to the best of his abilities.”
Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro said, “Aside from the founding fathers of democracy in Nigeria, Wayas was the founding father of the new generation of democrats at that time.”
In his tribute, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said that Wayas brought glamour and candour to the legislature.
Wayas’ body was brought to Nigeria on July 10, 2024, after over two years in a United Kingdom morgue.
He is due for burial in Cross River State on November 30.
