On November 30, 2024, Nigeria will bid farewell to former Senate President Dr. Joseph Wayas, who passed away in London in November 2021. His final journey will take him by road from Calabar to his hometown of Bassang in Obanliku Local Government Area (LGA), Cross River State, covering a journey of over seven hours.
The burial committee’s Secretary, Dr. Dorn Cklaimz, announced that the funeral arrangements have been coordinated by both the Nigerian Federal Government and Cross River State Government. To honor Wayas’ contributions to Nigerian unity, the main ceremony will take place at UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar, with dignitaries including past Nigerian leaders and former Senate Presidents expected to attend. After the ceremony, Wayas’ remains will be transported to Bassang for his final resting place.
While a working airstrip might have shortened the travel time, Obanliku’s Bebi airstrip has been closed since 2010. Instead, Wayas’ body will take a lengthy road journey, a choice that reflects the logistical challenges of rural infrastructure in Cross River.
The Senate has also confirmed its role in transporting Wayas’ remains from the National Hospital in Abuja to Calabar. Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the importance of paying tribute to Wayas, recognizing his dedication to national unity and stability.
“Akpabio’s willingness to honour Dr Wayas by arranging transportation of the remains from Abuja to Calabar and then onward to Bassang community of Obanliku LGA speaks volumes about his respect for the legacy of this great national icon,” Cklaimz said.
“The only two options left would be to fly the body in an helicopter or travel on the very bad roads that lead to northern part of Cross River State”, said a social commentator, Chief Ekpenyong Effiong.
Wayas’ body was finally flown back to Nigeria in July 2024 with the help of the ‘Who Is Who In Northern Cross River Forum’ and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu. Although the service in Calabar is more accessible for dignitaries, Wayas’ legacy will be honored as he is brought home to Bassang for burial, closing the final chapter on his influential life.
“Several very senior citizens, including past presidents and governors who are elderly, have indicated that they will personally attend.
“And that the stress of traveling to the Bassang community would tell on their health. We have to respect their position and hold the funeral in Calabar,” he said.
