Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep disappointment over the Federal Government’s failure to accord the late Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of Nigeria’s national flag, a state burial.
Atiku made the statement while reacting to a recent BBC report highlighting that, a year after Akinkunmi’s death, the promised state honors have yet to be fulfilled by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“I am immensely disheartened that the Federal Government under Tinubu’s administration has failed to bestow upon the late Michael Akinkunmi, the creator of our national flag, the state burial he was so rightfully promised,” Atiku posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Akinkunmi, fondly referred to as “Mr. Flag Man,” passed away on August 29, 2023, at the age of 84. He became a national icon after his design was chosen as Nigeria’s official flag in 1959, symbolizing unity and national pride ahead of the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1960.
“No other patriot embodies the spirit of honour and sacrifice as profoundly as the revered ‘Mr. Flag Man,’” Atiku continued, lamenting the government’s failure to recognize Akinkunmi’s contributions appropriately.
Atiku’s comments have sparked significant reactions online, with many Nigerians criticizing the government for neglecting the legacy of one of the nation’s greatest symbols. Among the reactions was Tony Ogbuagu (@Tony_Ogbuagu), who pointed out Atiku’s influence in drawing attention to the issue.
“Watch the Tinubu Presidency respond in less than 24 hours now, that’s the power of Atiku Abubakar, The Lone Opposition Voice in Nigeria,” Ogbuagu tweeted.
Others, like Abdullahi (@Abdullahiajao1), echoed similar sentiments: “They can’t remember our heroes because they can’t be heroes. Late Michael Akinkunmi is Nigeria’s Symbol. May Your Soul Rest in Perfect Peace. Amin.”
Another user, Lions (@Deprincefrk001), expressed frustration with the current government’s treatment of both the living and the dead: “The current administration is starving the living, making life so very difficult for them, let alone the dead.”
The calls for a state burial stem from promises reportedly made by government officials to Taiwo Akinkunmi’s family, which have yet to be honored.
Critics of the administration argue that the late Taiwo Akinkunmi’s role in shaping Nigeria’s national identity should be celebrated with greater recognition. Many are now urging the government to fulfill its promise and give the late designer the honor he deserves.
As pressure mounts from prominent figures like Atiku and the general public, it remains to be seen how President Tinubu’s administration will respond to the outcry.
