Cross River repatriates all corpses of her prominent figures buried abroad. This is a uniquely new dimension in honouring Nigeria’s past heroes.
Cross River State has adopted a significant policy to repatriate the remains of elder statesmen from the state who pass away abroad. This is to ensure that prominent figures who contributed to Nigeria’s development return to their homeland for burial.
This move, was officially announced at a news conference by Dr. Dorn-Cklaimz Enamhe, Secretary of the Central Planning Committee for the burial of the late Dr. Joseph Wayas. Medialord.ng gathered this demonstrates the state’s commitment to honouring its leaders with dignified burials at home.
Governor Bassey Otu has reportedly pledged that Cross River natives who pass abroad will not remain in foreign countries. Instead, the governor is brining all their corpses back to their ancestral homes for burial
Honouring Wayas as Cross River repatriates his remains
Dr. Joseph Wayas, a former Nigerian Senate President from 1979 to 1983, is among the first to benefit from this policy. After Wayas’ passing in a London hospital in November 2021, his remains were kept in the UK. This was due to prolonged family disputes and logistical issues. It took over two years and substantial fundraising efforts, with contributions totaling approximately N135 million, to finally bring his body back to Nigeria in July 2024. The funds, raised by Cross River’s prominent leaders and citizens, highlighted the collective commitment to returning Wayas’ remains to his homeland
Cross River state will bury Wayas on November 30, 2024, exactly three years after his death. Authorities have scheduled ceremonies both in Calabar and his hometown in Bassang, Obanliku Local Government Area. This move marks a poignant homecoming for a man remembered as a diplomatic figure in Nigerian politics, known for his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework during the Second Republic.
Dr. Joseph Wayas’ legacy in Nigerian politics
Dr. Joseph Wayas played a notable role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. As Senate President, he navigated complex political dynamics during a formative period in Nigeria’s democracy, striving to uphold parliamentary independence and transparency. His legacy remains as indelible as that of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, who died recently.
He enjoyed high regards for his bipartisan approach. This approach facilitated cooperation between different arms of government during the nation’s second attempt at democracy in the early 1980s. Despite the challenges faced in his tenure, many see Wayas’ legacy as one of dedication to democratic ideals. His influence remains significant among contemporary Nigerian legislators
This new policy by Cross River State aligns with Wayas’ ideals, showing reverence for public service and reinforcing the importance of honoring those who have contributed to the state and the country. This decision by Cross River’s leaders not only fulfills a cultural duty but also cements the state’s commitment to remembering its historical figures within the homeland.
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