The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has named the 12.5 kilometres Kemta-Idi Aba-Somorin road in Abeokuta, after the Noble Laureate, Wole Soyinka.
Abiodun disclosed this at a reception organised by the state government to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Noble Laureate, in Abeokuta, on Wednesday.
He said the naming of the road after the world-renowned playwright was a result of his achievements in academia and literature that have brought honour not only to Ogun State and Nigeria but to 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 Noble 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,” Abiodun said.
The governor stated 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 transcended cultural boundaries.
“His career spans 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, Abiodun said he was imprisoned during the Nigerian civil war on charges of conspiring with the Biafran secessionists where he spent 22 months, adding that despite that, he remained resolute for a better society.
The former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Emeka Anyaoku, while supervising the cutting of the birthday cake, described Soyinka as a champion of democracy and the promoter of human dignity.
Dignitaries, including former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, amongst others, attended the event