On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, the news of Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi’s passing shook the nation. The renowned designer of Nigeria’s flag had breathed his last, leaving behind a legacy of unity and national pride.
Pa Akinkunmi’s journey to immortality began in 1958 when he won a competition to design the national flag. His creation, the green-white-green flag, has since become an enduring symbol of Nigeria’s unity.
In recognition of his contributions to nation-building, the Federal Government honored Pa Akinkunmi with the national honor of ‘Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic’ in 2014. This recognition cemented his status as a national hero.
President Bola Tinubu sent a federal government delegation to condole with the family, promising a befitting burial for the national hero. The southwest governors also pledged to establish a committee to plan the burial.
However, eight months have passed since Pa Akinkunmi’s demise, and his body remains in the morgue. The family is struggling to foot the monthly mortuary expenses, and the government’s promises remain unfulfilled.
The delay in giving Pa Akinkunmi a befitting burial has raised questions about the government’s sincerity and willingness to honor a national hero. The usual timeframe for state burials is within a month, making the delay even more inexplicable.
The government’s inaction has left many wondering if Pa Akinkunmi’s contribution to Nigeria’s unity is being taken for granted. The symbol of unity he created has endured despite the country’s challenges, making his burial a national priority.
The legislative arm of government must enact a law stipulating a timeframe for state burials to prevent similar incidents in the future. This will ensure that citizens who have made significant contributions to the country’s development receive the honor they deserve.
The federal government, southwest governors, and relevant organizations must take immediate action to give Pa Akinkunmi a befitting burial. His legacy deserves to be celebrated, and his family deserves closure.
Pa Akinkunmi’s burial is not just a family affair but a national concern. His contributions to Nigeria’s unity and development must be recognized and honored.
The government’s prompt action will rekindle the spirit of statesmanship, selfless service, and commitment to nationhood by citizens in their various works of life.
In conclusion, Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi deserves a befitting burial, and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that he receives one. His legacy must be celebrated, and his family must be given closure. Enough is enough; let Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi rest in peace.
Dayo Adu is an award-winning multimedia journalist with one and a half decades of Broadcast and New Media experience. He’s passionate about Developmental Journalism. He can be reached at temidayoadu@gmail.com
