Achebe’s body arrives Abuja

The remains of celebrated writer, Chinua Achebe arrived Abuja, the federal capital territory, Tuesday morning and was received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport by government officials, writers, cultural organisations and other associates.

Dignitaries present at the local wing of the airport include, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim,  Governor Peter Obi and many others , as Achebe’s casket, draped in national colours of green and white was ushered into the local wing, with pall bearers in full igbo attire as blaring trumpets, songs and dancing pervaded the hall.

Also present at the brief reception are  Chief Ogbonaya Onu and Chinelo.

Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Communion, The Most Rev. NIcholas Okoh flanked by Finance MInister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Member Achebe Burial Committee, Prof. Uzordinma Nwagi while Information MInister, Mr. Malaran Maku (r); Wife of former Senate President, Senator Magery Chuba-Okadigbo (L); Anambra State Deputy Governor, Mr. Emeka Sibeudu (2L) and Former FCT CAN Chairman, Rev. Williams Okoye (2R) join in a group photograph after the Commendation Service in honour and Memory of Prof. Chinualomogu Achebe at the National Christian Centre, Abuja. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

As at press time, Achebe’s body was accompanied into the plane by his wife Chrstie, other family members and Governor Peter Obi in a flight to Enugu where activities have been lined up in his honour. The world acclaimed author died on March 21, 2013 at 82.
Meanwhile, at 10am today in Abuja, ANA will hold a lecture at the International Conference Centre (ICC) for Achebe under the chairmanship of Niger State governor Dr. Babangida Aliyu, while a day of tributes also holds today at the same venue at 3. 30 pm.
Also, Achebe’s body will be in Awka on Wednesday while he will be buried at Ogidi,his hometown, in Anambra State on Thursday.