Family Proceeds with Burial of Nigerian Flag Designer After Government Fails to Deliver on Promised State Funeral

The family of Sir Taiwo Akinkunmi, designer of the Nigerian flag, is proceeding with his burial today, September 6, in Ibadan after waiting a full year for the promised state funeral from the Federal Government.

Akinkunmi, who passed away at the age of 87 on September 4, 2023, was supposed to receive a state burial, but as the months passed, no arrangements were made, leaving the family in a difficult position.

His son, Akinwumi Akinkunmi, expressed frustration, stating, “We have to give him the befitting burial he deserves.”

 In spite of being informed that the National Institute for Cultural Orientation under the Ministry of Arts would handle the arrangements, the family received no further communication, forcing them to proceed.

The Oyo State Government stepped in to fund the burial, with rites starting on September 4 and concluding today.

Akinwumi emphasized the family’s disappointment in the lack of follow-through from the Federal Government, adding that the ongoing delays risk dishonoring his father’s memory.

 The family’s decision highlights a growing concern over the federal government’s unfulfilled promises.

Akinwumi added, “We had hoped the government would step in, but it’s become clear that wasn’t happening. While we wait for them to fulfill their promise, we are grateful to the Oyo State House of Assembly and other local leaders for standing by us.”