Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, have paid tribute to Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 90th birthday.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, Governor Abiodun described Professor Wole Soyinka as a literary icon and a steadfast advocate for social justice and human rights, whose impact resonates globally.
“Congratulations to Professor Soyinka on reaching the incredible milestone of 90 years! Throughout his lifetime, he has not only become a literary icon but also a voice for social justice and human rights,” Abiodun stated.
“His contributions to literature, theatre, and activism have left an indelible mark on the sands of history. Here’s to celebrating his remarkable achievements and wishing him many more years of inspiration and impact.”
The governor lauded Wole Soyinka’s contributions to the development of literature, culture, and democracy in Nigeria and beyond through his gifted art of writing and activism.
He commended the legendary playwright, poet, and essayist for his unwavering commitment to the fight for social justice, human rights, and good governance over the past six decades.
Abiodun stated that Soyinka’s legacy as a fearless, principled, and cerebral public intellectual will continue to inspire generations of both born and yet unborn Nigerians and Africans.
He wished the revered scholar many more years of good health, wisdom, and fulfilment as he celebrated his landmark 90th birthday.
Atiku Abubakar also took to social media to celebrate Soyinka.
In a post on his official X handle on Saturday, Atiku lauded Soyinka as a vibrant figure in Nigerian literature and society.
“To truly celebrate Prof Wole Soyinka, You Must Set Forth at Dawn. And that would be after a Telephone Conversation. The man of Ake, despite all the Trials of Brother Jero, and at a prime age of 90, remains a virile hunter in our Forest of a Thousand Daemons,” Atiku wrote.
“Neither Death nor the King’s Horseman has stopped The Interpreter from his bountiful Kongi’s Harvest and the Chronicles of his happy life on Earth. Yet, The Man Lives, even in this Season of Anomy. Happy birthday and congratulations, Sir,” he concluded.
