I had the privilege of meeting Sky at Reading University when he was living opposite me at Hillside in 1993. His full nickname was SkyPower.  I remember his legs were too long for the bed. During a time of stress he was a supportive friend. 

Later he spent some time in Singapore and I regret I did not see him much, apart from an evening when we spent a couple of hours listening to Fela just before he left. He told me the meaning of some of the lyrics and of his admiration for Ken Saro-Wiwa.

It was a privilege to spend some time with this great soul. I am so sorry he has gone. My sincere condolences to his family.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snIV_-IECsM

Sky and I did our doctoral studies under the same supervisor at Reading, Dr Paul Kerswill. I had recently returned from more than 10 years in Cameroon, and Sky arrived a couple of years later from Nigeria. In our research, we both had urgent questions on the use of African languages, and it was a special pleasure to be able to interact with Sky on these mutual concerns. His unfailing courtesy in debate and his ever-ready humour and smile are memories that I carry with me from that time.

Our paths diverged as Sky carved out his professional – and then professorial – niche, but continued to cross occasionally at conferences and other events. Far from creating any professorial distance, Sky was ever the same friend and colleague – interested, enquiring, positive and optimistic.

I am saddened that he is no longer with us and will miss him as an outstanding scholar and as a person whose sense of the fullness of life always inspired. My heartfelt condolences go to his wife Karen and their family.