*By lfeanyi Ndukwe,Awka*

Every year, friends ,well wishers, family and fans take their turns to appreciate and celebrate the legendary author and Professor of Creative Writings, Late Chinua Achebe for his immense contributions to our society at large.

This year's edition which marked the 10th anniversary was no different as professionals, political office holders, friends and relations, community heads converged in the popular Ogidi town hall to appraise the works of the author and quiesssential teacher.

In his remarks, His Royal Highness Pharm. Alex Uzo Onyido described
Achebe as a quiesssential personality and a son of honour. He said the town of Ogidi will continue to immortalise and celebrate him for his immeasurable impact he made to society at large.

On his part, former minister of aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka thanked the community for hosting such remarkable events in honour of the legendary author.

He traced memory lane of his personal encounters with the late patriarch.

"My first meet and greet with the audacious person of Achebe was at Onitsha head bridge in 1999.

While, another courtesy meeting was in year 2000 during his birthday celebration at the Achebe's country home.

xraChief Chidoka made a clarion call to build for the government and private agencies to consider immortalizing him by erecting a Chinua Achebe Museum and a world class Chinua Achebe Centre in Ogidi.

In his appraisal of the work, "The Trouble With Nigeria" published in 1983, Chief Chidoka described Achebe as empathetic, concerned with practical of transforming Nigeria. The work explained that the only trouble with Nigeria is leadership failure.

He lamented the ills of tribalism which has affected the unity and progress of the nation and called for a halt on prejudices on individuals and groups with deep references to renewing the relationship amongst religious and political groups.

He appealed to the general public to celebrate the iconic author as a true Nigerian and African as a preacher of peace and harmony.

Former commissioner for lnformation, C.Don Adinuba eulogised Achebe as a man of impeccable character. He recalled with nostalgia the various encounters with the award winning legend and ascribed every moment as encompassing and euphoric.

The climax was recognitions of dignitaries who graced the occasion, meets and greets of aspiring authors and a banquet to fill the body.

There was a country.

Deserving. The most read Nigerian writer. I am happy Festus Iyayi followed his footsteps, though short-lived.