FORMER SENATE PRESIDENT, JOSEPH WAYAS IS DEAD, AYADE MOURNS

The Second Republic Senate President, Dr Joseph Wayas has been confirmed dead.

The deceased, Dr. Wayas died in the early hours of Tuesday in a London hospital.

Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade described his death as a monumental loss to the state in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

The governor, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Christian Ita, said Wayas as Senate President contributed to the deepening of Nigeria’s democratic ethos through his robust and vibrant leadership of the upper legislative chamber.

“As a state, Cross River is in pains as we mourn the passing of our illustrious son. He was a rare gem. Dr. Wayas’ demise is indeed a monumental loss to our dear state and Nigeria.

“And since his retirement from active politics, the former Senate President had been playing a fatherly and stabilising role in the politics and affairs of our state,” part of the statement read.

Ayade condoled with the deceased’s family, assuring them that his death is a collective loss and the pains a shared one.

“We are with you in this moment of grief. We have you in our hearts and prayers,” the governor said.