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The nation has been thrown into mourning following the death of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the man who designed Nigeria’s flag.
His child, Akinkunmi Akinkunmi broke the sad news via Facebook on Wednesday. Pa Akinkunmi died in the early hours of Tuesday after a brief illness.
He wrote: “Life is indeed transient; I can say boldly that you lived a life with a landmark. Continue to rest, my father! Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi (O.F.R.): A great man has gone.”
In 1958, while living abroad, Akinkunmi saw an advertisement in a national daily for the submission of designs for the Nigeria’s national flag as the country’s independence from British governance was close.
Among the over 2,000 entries submitted, his was picked. It was hoisted on Independence Day, October 1, 1960, in place of the British Union Jack, while Akinkunmi was awarded 100 pounds when his design was selected.
Pa Akinkunmi was 84.
In his condolence message, former vice president, Atiku Abubakar wrote; “It is sad to hear of the passing away of Pa Micheal Taiwo Akinkunmi, who designed our national flag, which has become a part of our heritage.
I wish to join our compatriots not just to mourn but to celebrate one of our national heroes who passed on at the age of 84. I have directed that the Nigerian flag in my residence be flown at half mast in his honour.
This is why I have always advocated for the study of history so that the youth and future generations will be acquainted with our past and emulate the virtues and heroic deeds of our present and past leaders.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family, even as I pray that God comforts them and grants Pa Akinkunmi eternal rest.”
On his part, rapper Ruggedman wrote; “The Flag Man has gone to rest. I got a direct message from his son Akinkunmi this morning that papa has passed on.
Incase you don’t know, Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi was a retired Nigerian civil servant famous for designing Nigerias national flag. I am glad I had the privilege to honour him at my 2019 foundation concert. May his soul rest in peace, can I get an amen.”
