December 18, 2012, is one date the Okere family of Umuohie Ngor in Ngor Okpala local government area of Imo State, will not forget in a hurry.

THE month of December is a unique period in Rivers State and often very colourful because of the activities lined up by the state government to make it memorable and fun packed.

AS the world celebrates the beginning of a new year, 2013, today, much water has passed under the bridge of Lagos state. The year 2012, though, full of mixed grills across every sector of the state’s economy, witnessed wild protests against both federal and state governments harsh socio-economic policies.

They all wore swollen faces, with tears trickling down their cheeks. Some stood with hands akimbo and others placed their hands on their heads, watching as their goods were destroyed by fire. No thanks to the explosion that rocked Jankara Market in Isale-Eko area of Lagos State on Boxing Day. Worst hit were residents of the affected buildings who have been rendered homeless by the inferno which lasted over ten hours, defying efforts by fire fighters to contain the situation.

All has not been well in Evbuovbioba in Oredo Local Government Council of Edo State after what the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediuwa Uku Akpolopolo, alleged as disregard for the custom and tradition of the Benin Kingdom by the Enogie, His Royal Highness Edwin Izevbokun Aigbe, and the Odionwere, Mr John Egharevba.