The passage of the Nigeria’s Second Republic Senate President, Dr Joseph Wayass as reported in the media is unquestionably one of the most tragic events in recent history of our country.
An indefatigable patriot, an epitome of the optimism embedded in the heart of Nigeria’s potentials for greatness as the giant of the black world.
In my proximity and familiarity with the Senate during the tenure of Dr Wayas as our Senate President, I came to know Dr Wayas as dignified gentleman and a quintessential political leader, a de-tribalised nationalist with irrevocable belief in the tenets of democracy. Indeed, in the authentic narrative of Dr Wayas stands a legacy of noiselessly and strategically activating the Senate for the advancement and nourishment of democracy in Nigeria during our first trial in the resumption of Civil Rule in the late 70s.
One of the founding fathers of unforgettable National Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic, Dr Wayas will always be remembered and honoured for his role as one of those who inspired the building of Southern minority momentum which fused with other national groups across the country to build a truly Nigerian national party.
Undoubtedly, an inadequately portrayed phenomenon, Dr Wayas was a gentle goat with remarkable indelible strides on the arena of our nation’s history.
May God Almihhty grant this great son of Nigeria eternal rest. May his family also be blessed with the strength to bear the loss.
Farewell Dr Wayas.
Tanko Yakasai OFR, Former Presidential Liaison Adviser to President Shagari
