Former chairman of Itesiwaju Local Government Area in Oyo State, Dr Thomas Olayode, on Saturday, decried the delay in the burial of the designer of Nigeria’s flag, Pa Taiwo Micheal Akinkunmi, describing the development as a national shame.
Olayode, who described the flag as the symbol of unity, struggles and aspirations, said Akinkunmi who designed it had been forgotten in the mortuary without being given befitting burial 10 months after his demise.
Recall that Akinkunmi died on August 29, 2023.
President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government sent a delegation led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, to pay a visit to the family.
Idris while speaking, promised that the designer of the national flag would be given a befitting burial.
He also promised that Akinkunmi’s efforts would not be in vain.
Olayode, in a statement on Saturday, however, expressed disappointment over the delay in the burial of the deceased, noting that Akinkunmi’s contributions have not been met with the respect and honour he deserves, even in death.
He appealed to the Federal Government to give the deceased a befitting burial.
His statement titled, ‘A Nation’s Shame: Neglect of Taiwo Michael Akinkunmi’s Final Rest’, partly read, “Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of the Nigerian flag, has passed on, leaving behind a legacy that symbolizes unity and national pride. Unfortunately, his contributions have not been met with the respect and honour he deserves, even in death.
“For months, his body has lain in a morgue, unclaimed and unburied, a stark contrast to the dignity his work embodies. This neglect is a shame on our nation, a failure to recognize the significance of his contribution to our identity.
“The Nigerian flag, designed by Akinkunmi, is a symbol of our unity, our struggles, and our aspirations. It is a beacon of hope and freedom, waving high across the globe, representing our great nation. Yet, the man behind this iconic symbol has been forgotten, left to languish in a cold, dark morgue.
“This is a stark reminder of our nation’s shortcomings, our inability to honour our heroes, and our disregard for those who have served us selflessly. We must come together to give Mr. Akinkunmi the burial he deserves, a burial that reflects his contributions to our nation. We owe it to him, his family, and ourselves to show respect and gratitude for his service.
“Let us not forget the sacrifices he made, the pride he instilled in us, and the symbol of unity he created. Let us honour his legacy, and let us do it now, before it’s too late. We can and must do better, for Mr. Akinkunmi’s sake, and for the sake of our nation’s dignity.”
