President Bola Tinubu had called on Nigerians, particularly the political elite, to emulate the virtues of the former Senate President, late Dr Joseph Wayas, who was buried in his home town of Bassang in Obanliku LGA of Cross River State on Saturday.
Wayas died in London on November 30, 2022 at the age of 80. He was Senate President from 1979 to 1983.
The President said that the late Wayas lived for the unity of the country and described him as a peaceful man whose public service records remain indelible.
The president was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume
Also speaking at the funeral, which had an array of dignitaries and politicians in attendance, was the Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu.
He said that the state will uphold and remember the legacy of Wayas.
He said Wayas had emphasised love and unity of the country while alive, recalling how influential he was.
“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.
During the night of tributes held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium on Friday, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio had urged the bereaved family to eschew bitterness and acrimony and emphasise 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,” he said.
