Soyinka deserves accolades for unwavering dedication to human dignity, justice: Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has lauded Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on the occasion of his 90th birthday, saying the playwright merits every accolade for his unwavering dedication to human dignity and justice.
“I am delighted to join admirers worldwide in celebrating the 90th birthday of Nigeria’s iconic figure and the globally acclaimed Professor Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde, better known as Wole Soyinka,” said Mr Tinubu in a statement on Friday.
He noted, “Professor Soyinka, who became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, truly deserves all the accolades as he reaches this significant milestone of 90 years. Having overcome prostate cancer, this anniversary stands as a testament to his resilience and the importance of his work. It is fitting that we honour this national treasure while he is still with us.”
Mr Tinubu reflected on his own encounters with the literary giant and acknowledged Soyinka’s vital role in the fight for Nigerian democracy. He added, “We not only celebrate Soyinka’s extraordinary literary accomplishments but also his steadfast commitment to the principles of human dignity and justice.”
“Our paths crossed during our earnest struggle for democracy in Nigeria following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. Facing a trial in absentia and a death sentence from the military regime, he rallied opposition from exile through NALICON and NADECO. His international prominence made him the symbolic leader of our effort to validate June 12 and restore democracy in Nigeria. Today, I join the global community in celebrating his profound influence on generations of writers, scholars, and activists inspired by his work. I honour him for igniting our resolve to challenge military dictatorships in our nation,” Mr Tinubu said.
Born on July 13, 1934 in Aké, Abeokuta, Ogun State, the literary icon and activist, who has authored over 50 books, is renowned for his seminal works including Kongi’s Harvest, The Lion and the Jewel, A Dance of the Forests, and The Trials of Brother Jero.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Politics
Delta LG Election: IPAC lauds security agencies
He noted that the election was generally peaceful.
States
Governor Mutfwang shuts down school over building collapse
“Although investigations are ongoing, poor building materials were among reasons for the collapse.”
Education
NDDC awards foreign scholarships to 200 Niger Delta scholars
“We know that education is the most powerful weapon for changing the fortunes of the Niger Delta region,” he said.
Abuja
Four rescued from collapsed building in Abuja
She appealed to developers to strictly follow the building code and avoid the use of substandard materials.
World
Trump challenges Biden to cognitive test ahead of November presidential election
Since the debate, Democrats have pressured Mr Biden to consider stepping down in favour of a more viable candidate.
Lagos
Lagos govt cracks down on fake materials testing companies
According to Mrs Abdul, the purpose is to protect public safety in buildings in Lagos state.
