The Late former Senate President in the Second Republic, Senator Joseph Wayas, has been described as an apostle of true federalism and one who promoted harmonious relationship between the legislature and the executive.
Dr. Joseph Wayas who was the President of the Senate in the Second Republic (1979 – 1983) passed on in a London Hospital in the early hours of Tuesday, Nov 30, 2021, at the age of 80. He hailed from Cross River State.
Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, in a tribute signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, described the Late Wayas as a strong believer in true federalism.
Omo-Agege attributed the current harmonious relationship between the legislative and the executive arms of government to the legacy of the Late Senate president, noting that it has continued to enhance good government.
His words: “Indeed, as we mourn this strong believer in the principles of true federalism as a mechanism for advancing Nigeria’s democratic growth and development, we must pause to thank God Almighty for his productive life, pray for the eternal repose of his soul and beseech God Almighty to bless the family that he left behind with His enduring grace and mercies.
“As Senate President, Senator Wayas went to great lengths to ensure that, in the interest of their political party as well as the entire nation, both the Executive and Legislature were on the same page on critical issues before such were brought up at the Senate.”
Omo-Agege also described the Late senator as an epitome of peace and progress who worked relentlessly for the development and sustainability of national unity.
“He was also known for peaceful, patriotic compromise and a lifetime commitment towards working with Nigerians from other parts of the Federation.
“He was an experienced private sector figure who distinguished himself in the public sector, utilising knowledge and experiences gathered abroad to enhance governance in Nigeria.
“As Commissioner for Transport in the old South Eastern state, as a Federal official and as a member of Nigeria’s Constituent Assembly in 1977 – 1979, he consistently worked with others towards resolving critical challenges that impact the lives of citizens,” Omo-Agege said.
