Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has revealed that he plans to assess President Bola Tinubu’s administration after one year in office. Speaking in Lagos during an interaction with State House Correspondents on Sunday, Soyinka explained that this has been his customary approach with Tinubu’s predecessors over the years.
Soyinka recalled their meeting five years ago, describing it as an awkward encounter where he advised Tinubu, alongside Atiku, to step aside and allow younger individuals to take the political stage. Despite referring to Tinubu as the “olori kunkun” or the stubborn one, the President ignored Soyinka’s counsel. The recent meeting, Soyinka clarified, was a friendly visit to check on Tinubu and his wife, extend Christmas wishes, and assess their well-being.
Regarding the content of their discussion, Soyinka disclosed presenting a seven-point agenda aimed at advancing the country during challenging times. While he refrained from disclosing the specifics, he emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law and upholding the constitution. Soyinka also noted that their conversation addressed the release of individuals detained for standing on personal principles, expressing optimism that positive steps would be taken to address the incarceration of prisoners of conscience nationwide.
Acknowledging the bureaucratic challenges in governance, Soyinka explained that his request aimed to ensure the President’s awareness of such cases and foster a resolution for legal breaches.