Tinubu, Soyinka: A Brotherhood of Praise and Protests
The relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka is one that defies simplistic labels—blending reverence, history, and the occasional fiery critique.
In May 2025, Soyinka joined other cultural icons in applauding Tinubu’s administration for putting Nigeria’s creative heritage on the global stage, a move many hailed as a bold step in cultural diplomacy. The applause, however, did not mute Soyinka’s voice when matters of national conscience were at stake. Just a month later, in June, the literary icon openly challenged Tinubu, referencing three key martyrs in Nigeria’s democratic journey and subtly questioning whether their sacrifices were being honoured in full.
Yet, despite their occasional ideological collisions, the bond remains intact. On July 13, 2025—Soyinka’s 91st birthday—Tinubu publicly celebrated the playwright, calling him an “uncommon patriot” and a “towering source of inspiration.”
This was not the first time Tinubu had honoured the elder statesman. In July 2024, he famously renamed the National Arts Theatre in Lagos after Soyinka to mark his 90th birthday—a symbolic gesture that underscored a shared legacy rooted in activism, resistance, and the power of culture.
While their exchanges may oscillate between camaraderie and critique, what remains clear is that both men share a collective stake in Nigeria’s destiny. Their evolving relationship is a reminder that patriotism does not always wear the same face—and sometimes, the truest loyalty lies in asking the hardest questions.