In a move resonating deeply with national sentiment, the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) has responded to the heartfelt pleas of Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi’s family, committing to ensuring a befitting burial for the man who designed the Nigerian flag. This significant decision comes ten months after Akinkunmi’s passing.
The issue gained widespread attention following trending discussions on social media, highlighting the perceived neglect of the burial arrangements for this revered national hero.
In response, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, directed Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, the Executive Secretary/CEO of NICO, to intervene and ensure a dignified farewell for Akinkunmi.
Caleb Nor, Media Assistant to NICO’s Executive Secretary, conveyed the institute’s commitment in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja.
The statement emphasized the government’s dedication under the leadership of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to uphold cultural norms and respect for the deceased.
Otunba Biodun Ajiboye articulated that the decision stems from a deep-seated cultural respect for the dead and an acknowledgment of Akinkunmi’s substantial contributions to Nigeria. “It is a prominent part of our culture as a people not to neglect our heroes,” Ajiboye remarked.
“The cry of the family of Late Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the man who designed the Nigerian flag, has come to the attention of the federal government.
NICO has compassionately decided to take up a major role and responsibility in coordinating and collaborating with other agencies necessary to give a befitting burial to this our fallen hero.”
Ajiboye highlighted the symbolic significance of the Nigerian flag as a tangible heritage and reiterated NICO’s mandate to promote and preserve the nation’s cultural heritage.
He assured that the Honourable Minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, is deeply concerned about the situation and has instructed NICO to act promptly.
“We are making contacts with the family to gather the details of how the federal government can assist in giving Pa Akinkunmi a fitting farewell,” Ajiboye added.
In stepping forward to honor Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, NICO reaffirms the nation’s commitment to its heroes, ensuring their legacy and contributions are remembered with the dignity they deserve.
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