The family of Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s flag, has announced that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has provided funds for the burial of their patriarch.
In a statement released on Friday, the family expressed their gratitude to Governor Makinde for fulfilling his promise. Akinkunmi, originally from Abeokuta in Ogun State but residing in Ibadan, Oyo State, passed away on August 29, 2023. His design was chosen in 1958 as the official national flag for Nigeria during its transition to independence.
The Federal Government, represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, had visited the family and assured them of support. Similarly, the Oyo State Government, under Governor Makinde, had sent a condolence letter. However, there was a delay in the burial due to the unfulfilled promises from both the federal and state governments.
Family spokesperson Samuel Akinkunmi acknowledged the governor’s recent action. “We are pleased to inform the public that Governor Seyi Makinde has now released the funds for our patriarch’s burial,” he said.
“He died last August, and despite promises from both the federal and state governments, there were delays. We had even planned to proceed with the burial on our own at one point.”
He continued, “We are grateful to Governor Makinde, the 7th Assembly members, the Oyo State Advisory Council, and everyone who supported us. We also appreciate the Yoruba World Congress UK for their advocacy, which included an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Although the presidency has not yet fulfilled its promise, their support was crucial.”
Akinkunmi concluded, “We thank the media for amplifying our voice. We will soon announce the date for the burial and extend our thanks to everyone who has helped us during this time.”
