Obu Umunri palace at Nkwo Enugwu-Ukwu was filled to the brim. In attendance were the crème de la crème of the society. They include men of power and influence corporate titans, political juggernauts, business tycoons, educationists and religious top brass.

Christopher Uche Okeke, Painter and Professor of the Fine Arts died on January 5, following a long struggle with a devastating stroke, at his home in Nimo, in the Njikoka area of Anambra state, where he had established the Asele institute on his retirement from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Uche Okeke’s death marks a powerful closure of the life of a powerful imagination; a great artistic and cultural presence on the African firmament in the last half century.

Professor Uade Sam Ugbomoiko is a parasitologist and former Head of Department of Zoology, University of Ilorin. His research focus covers parasites of small mammals, epidemiology and control of zoonotic parasites. Ugbomoiko gives a fresh insight into the treatment of diseases in Nigeria and how to stem the tide. He speaks against the backdrop of the Lassa fever outbreak in Nigeria.

How many times have we heard the pilot announce the final approach to the destination, asking everyone to keep their seat belts upon landing also while the aircraft is still taxing until it comes to a complete stop. What happens next as soon as the plane lands? At times you hear a subtle sound of appreciation then click click click, passengers instantly releasing their seat belts and standing while still in motion. I’m not sure why the rush, they just cannot wait to touch ground and get off that plane. Is it that they had closed ears when the announcements were made? When your neighbor behaves in this manner, just politely tell them to take care, keep seated for safety. Most times the flight attendant should be quick to address this.

At least 10 persons were confirmed dead with scores injured when a group of Boko Haram terrorists who rode on 10 bicycles from Sambisa Forest invaded Mairi Mmumbe village, near Dalori District of Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State on Saturday. The Vice- Chairman of the Civilian JTF in charge of Konduga, Mallam Ahmed Tijjani, said.