The body of celebrated writer, Chinua Achebe has arrived in Enugu, Nigeria, ahead of final funeral rites to be held on Thursday, May 23, 2013, according to a lindaikeji blog report.

The body of the ‘African Literary Giant’ upon arrival was welcomed by his elder brother Chief Augustine Achebe, his wife Professor Mrs Christie Achebe, and other family members and government officials.

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.

Earlier, the body was flown to the federal capital, Abuja and was received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport by government officials, writers, cultural organisations and other associates.

The casket, draped in national colours was ushered into the local wing, with pall bearers in full igbo attire as blaring trumpets, songs and dancing pervaded the hall.

Chinua Achebe died on Thursday march 21 in Boston after a short illness. He is best known for his prolific novels and comprehensive storytelling novels earning him the accolade ‘father of African literature’. He was 82 years.