The family of Late Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s flag, expressed gratitude towards Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for providing funds for the burial of their patriarch.
Hailing from Abeokuta in Ogun State, Akinkunmi resided in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he passed away on August 29, 2023.
In 1958, his flag design emerged as the winner among all the entries in a competition to create a new national flag for Nigeria.
A delegation from the Federal Government, headed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, visited the Akinkunmi family in Ibadan, assuring them of the government’s support.
In a statement signed by their spokesperson, Mr. Samuel Akinkunmi, the family acknowledged:
“We hereby announce that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has provided funds for the burial of our esteemed patriarch. Despite his passing last year, his burial was pending due to various commitments. The Federal Government, through Minister Muhammad Idris, and the Oyo State government had pledged their support. However, as initial dates were postponed, we contemplated proceeding with the burial independently, until Governor Seyi Makinde fulfilled his promise. We extend our gratitude to him, the 7th assembly members, the Oyo State Advisory Council, and all individuals involved.”
Furthermore, the family expressed appreciation to the Yoruba World Congress UK for their backing. They raised concerns via an open letter to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging action from the Nigerian government and the Oyo State government, although the Presidency’s commitment remains pending.