Soyinka was a human rights activist, is popularly knows for his act of seizing the Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service studio demanding the cancellation of the Western Nigerian Regional Election in 1965.

Soyinka who was the chair of Drama at the University of Ibadan, produced and directed many applauded stage plays and films including, “Requiem”, “The Lion And The Jewel’, “Blues for a Prodigal”, ‘A Play of Giants’ and “Death and the King’s Horseman”. Some of his most recognized written works include “The Man Died: Poetry From Prison”, “The Bacchae of Euripides”, “A Shuttle In the Crypt”, “Poems from Prison” and, his autobiography, “Ake: the Years of Childhood”, amongst others. He has demonstrated this on many occasions by lending his voice on national and global issues in favour of the masses.”Īkinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka, popularly known as Wole Soyinka, hails from Abeokuta in Ogun State. “He is a renowned advocate of truth, justice and equity, who always align with the populace in the clamour for good governance across the nation and globally. He is a great pride to Nigeria, Africa and the entire black race. “His long years of outstanding accomplishments and consistency in the crusade for the well being of citizens had culminated in his legendary status. Soyinka as a literary icon excels in all the genres of literature and1m his prodigious works have continued to be a reference point in academic circles all over the world. The Governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwoolu, also celebrated the professor as one of nation’s “quintessential scholars” who proudly contributed to the nation’s journey and stand for good governance. “As he attains 89 today, we pray that God Almighty grant him more years and strength so he can be around to witness the new Nigeria we are building in line with our Agenda for a Renewed Hope for the country, where security, prosperity and economic development will reign supreme.” He went on to say, “Professor Soyinka remains a beacon and a source of inspiration and support to many of us. Importantly, his contributions to the struggle for the restoration and institutionalization of democracy and good governance in Nigeria are indelible.” In the literary world, he remains a giant, an Iroko. “Renowned playwright, poet, novelist, Professor Wole Soyinka has done a lot for Nigeria. The President said, “”Today, I celebrate Nobel Laureate, elder statesman and pro-democracy activist, Prof. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, celebrated the Laureate describing him as “a brother and comrade in the struggle for the restoration and entrenchment of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.” The renowned writer and professor was the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986. Nigerian playwright, novelist, poet and essayist, Wole Soyinka turned 89 on Thursday.

Sindhi culture poetry