The Management of National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) has decided to heed the cry of the family of Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the man who designed the Nigerian flag to ensure he receives a befitting burial, 10 months after his death.
NICO’s decision is coming at the instance of trending news on social media platforms over the seeming neglect of the burial arrangement of the late national hero.
A statement made available to LEADERSHIP, signed by Caleb Nor, Media Assistant to the Executive Secretary/CEO of NICO, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, said,the decision is informed by the need to uphold our age-long respect for the dead as well as honour a past hero that has contributed significantly to the making of Nigeria.
“It is a prominent part of our culture as a people not to neglect our heroes. Characteristically, our culture does not ignore this kind of cry. To which extent, 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 and NICO has compassionately, considered taking up a major role and responsibility in coordinating and collaborating with other agencies that may be necessary in giving a befitting burial to this our fallen hero”.
“As we know, the flag remains one of the greatest tangible heritages of this country, and NICO has the mandate to promote both tangible and intangible cultural heritage”.
“The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa is deeply concerned about this situation and has directed NICO to wade into this situation immediately and as such, we are making contacts with the family so as to get the details of how the federal government can come in to assist the family to give a befitting burial to Pa Akinkunmi”, Ajiboye stated.
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