Finally, processes for repatriation of Wayas’ corpse from London begins

Processes towards the repatriation of the remains of former Senate President, Dr Joseph Wayas, from London, United Kingdom, will begin next week.

Wayas’ remains have been in a London morgue since he died about three years ago.

Impeccable sources have confirmed that the state governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has met with elders and stakeholders, under the aegis of ‘Who Is Who in Northern Cross River’ over lingering issues hampering the burial of the former number three citizen.

It is understood that the governor ordered the erstwhile funeral committee to account for the N200 million released by his predecessor, Prof Ben Ayade, for the purpose.

He directed the committee to add the remainder of the government fund with whatever the Who Is Who in Northern Cross River has so far raised, which altogether should total over N100 million, to repatriate Wayas’ remains back home immediately for burial.

Advertisement

A former Secretary to the State Government who is also former Executive Secretary of National Planning Commission, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, who was also a key member of the funeral committee, has assured that by the first week of June 2024, the processes for the repatriation of the corpse will begin.

In a note of thanks to the state governor on efforts so far, he assured that someone from the Who Is Who will arrive London next week, adding that the process, so far, is going on smoothly.

He disclosed that they have started to convert the money into Pounds Sterling to enable somebody fly to join forces with some of Wayas’ family members resident in London to perfect arrangements.

“Your Excellency. As promised, I met with Ukandi Dave Ashang to find out what they have done about the government’s directive on late Rt. Hon Dr Joseph Wayas’ corpse.

“He confirmed that the funds were transferred to Johnny Agim, SAN, within the week. I followed up with Johnny, and he confirmed.

“He further explained that the process of converting to Pound Sterling had commenced.”

According to Basang-Sylvania Anyawho, President of Bassang Association, umbrella body of the community where Wayas hailed from, “The state government has directed that the balance from the earlier N200 million given by Prof Ben Ayade’s administration should be added to what the Who Is Who in Northern Cross River has raised for the purpose. About N100 million is involved.”

Ugbo hailed the governor and all stakeholders for their united efforts towards the actualisation of the burial.