Wole Soyinka speaks on U.S. Visa Revocation, Tinubu’s Administration

By Christy Emeka

Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has spoken out for the first time about the reported revocation of his United States visa and his position on President Bola Tinubu’s government.

In an interview with BBC News Yoruba, published on Facebook on Tuesday, the renowned playwright said he would not be making any public assessment of the Tinubu government for now.

He explained that his comments are often misinterpreted and he prefers to take his time before speaking on the matter.

“I have been asked that question by several people,” Soyinka said in Yoruba. “I don’t want to respond because whatever one says tends to be twisted. I’m tired of that. So, I’ll take my time. When it’s time, I’ll write my thoughts on the matter.”

Soyinka, a long-time activist and critic of successive Nigerian governments, emphasized that he would share his views on the current administration only when he deems it appropriate.

The literary icon also addressed recent reports that the U.S. Embassy had revoked his B1/B2 visa. Confirming the development, Soyinka said he would not be applying for a new visa, despite being asked to do so by the consulate.

“If you read the letter they sent, it stated that I should bring my passport for them to stamp it, showing that the visa had been cancelled. They are jokers. I told them they should come to my house and stamp it themselves,” he said. “I won’t be applying again or sitting down to fill out any form, whether online or at their office — no.”

While clarifying that he holds no ill will toward the American people, Soyinka insisted he would not seek to renew the visa.

“But if someday they realise they made a mistake and ask me to come and take my visa back, I’ll tell them to bring it to my house. And before you come to my house, you’ll need a visa to enter,” he quipped.

The professor had earlier revealed during a media briefing at Freedom Park, Lagos, that his visa had been cancelled, preventing him from attending planned engagements in the United States.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Consulate in Lagos reiterated that visas are a privilege and may be revoked at any time at the discretion of the American government.