The Senate has urged the federal government to grant the departed literary icon, Professor Chinua Achebe, a state burial and erect a national monument in his memory.

The upper chamber of the legislature after holding a solemn plenary session in honour of the writer famed as the father of Africa’s modern literature, also assigned a delegation to commiserate with Achebe’s family, people and government of Anambra State.

After a minute’s silence in honour of the literary icon, the lawmakers devoted a great deal of Wednesday’s proceedings to eulogising Prof. Achebe.

Moving a motion, Senator Chris Ngige described Prof. Achebe as a world figure and a personality who brought fame and prestige to Nigeria through his numerous literary works.

The Senator also described the author of ‘Things Fall Apart’ as a patriot who loved his country.

Prof Achebe’s burial ceremony will commence on the 19th of May. On May 21st, Achebe’s remains will arrive Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja en route Enugu where the South East Governors Forum and prominent Igbo indigenes along with their friends will pay their last respect.

Prof. Achebe’s remains will be taken to the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Enugu Campus where academics from all over the world will pay their last respect to the late author.

A carnival will hold on May 22 at the Alex Ekwueme Stadium, Awka, Anambra State, to celebrate Mr. Achebe before his remains will be taken to his home town, Ogidi for interment.