₦airaland Forum

Abiodun Names Kemta-Idi Aba-Somorin Road After Wole Soyinka

Ogun State Governor, @DapoAbiodunCON has named the 12.5 kilometres Kemta-Idi Aba-Somorin road in Abeokuta, after the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka.

Governor Abiodun, who spoke at a reception organized by the state government to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Nobel Laureate, in Abeokuta, on Wednesday, said the naming of the road after the world renowned playright was as a result of his achievements in the academia and literature that has brought honour not only to Ogun State and Nigeria, but the black race.

Abiodun said that apart from using his writings to expose human conditions, Prof. Soyinka also showcases the rich and beautiful African culture to the outside world.

"Prof. Wole Soyinka is a towering figure in literature and a Nobel Laureate whose works have echoed across the world. A shining star of our great nation, his life and work are great testaments as a great genius.

His intellectual prowess and his unwavering dedication to the advancement of humanity are without question.

"As a colossus of our era, he continues to exemplify the spirit of resilience through his unwavering commitment to truth and justice.

Throughout his life, he has continued to challenge oppression, using himself as a mighty sword against injustice," Prince Abiodun said.

The governor noted that attaining the age of 90 is a testament to the grace of God who had spared his life, thanking President Bola Tinubu for renaming the National Arts Theatre, Lagos after the erudite scholar, noting that it is a well deserved honour.

"His writings are powerful weapons for social change and enlightenment, rich in symbolism and depth that have captivated audiences globally and transcending cultural boundaries.

"His career span academia, literature and activism exemplifying a profound commitment to creating a just and equitable world," the governor added.

Recounting some of the travails the literal icon went through to ensure an egalitarian society, Governor Abiodun said he was imprisoned during the Nigerian civil war on charges of conspiring with the Biafran succesionists where he spent 22 months, adding that despite that, he still remains resolute for a better society.

He congratulated the celebrant for attaining the age of 90 and prayed for more fruitful years ahead.

The former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, while supervising the cutting of the birthday cake, described Prof. Soyinka as a champion of democracy and the promoter of human dignity.

Dignitaries, including former governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, amongst others, attended the event.

We, the Ogun State Government, and its people proudly celebrate our son, Professor Wole Soyinka, on his 90th birthday, recognising his immense contributions to literature and society. As a global literary icon and cultural ambassador, he has significantly enriched world literature with his plays, essays, and poems that highlight African experiences.

Professor Soyinka's groundbreaking achievement as the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 brought immense pride to Nigeria and the entire continent. His works, such as "Death and the King's Horseman," "A Dance of the Forests," and "The Interpreters," are celebrated as literary masterpieces exploring cultural identity, societal norms, and the human spirit.

Beyond his literary genius, Professor Wole Soyinka is a dedicated human rights activist, advocating for justice and democracy often at great personal cost. His fearless stance against tyranny and oppression has made him a beacon of hope and courage, exemplified by his imprisonment during Nigeria's civil war and his lifelong fight against corruption and human rights abuses.

As a teacher and mentor, Professor Soyinka has shaped the minds of countless students and emerging writers, leaving an indelible mark on the next generation. On this milestone of his 90th birthday, we reflect on and celebrate his monumental achievements, praying for his continued good health, strength, and many more years under God's mercy and grace.

#BuildingOurFutureTogether #ISEYA #OgunState #ProfWoleSoyinkaAt90

The Ogun State Government and its people celebrate Professor Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday, honouring his contributions to literature and society. Professor Soyinka, a global literary icon and cultural ambassador, has enriched world literature and brought pride to our dear State and Nigeria as the first African Nobel Laureate in Literature. 
 
Beyond literature, Professor Soyinka is a dedicated human rights activist and advocate for justice. As a teacher and mentor, he has influenced many emerging writers. On his 90th birthday, we celebrate his achievements and wish him continued health and strength. 

#BuildingOurFutureTogether #ISEYA #DapoAbiodun #OgunState #ProfWoleSoyinkaAt90