Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has named the 12.5 kilometres Kemta-Idi Aba-Somorin Road in Abeokuta after the Noble Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka.
Abiodun, who spoke at a reception organised by the state government to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Noble Laureate, at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta, said the naming of the road after the world-renowned playwright was due to his achievements in the academia and literary world, which brought honour, not only to the state and Nigeria, but the black race.
He noted that apart from using his intellectual works towards promoting humanity, Soyinka also showcased the rich cultural heritage of the African continent to the outside world.
The governor said, “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 works are great testaments of a 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.”
The state’s helmsman while thinking President Bola Tinubu for renaming the National Arts Theatre, Lagos, after the erudite scholar, pointed out that attaining the age of 90 was evidence of the grace of God on him.
“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,” he said.
Recounting some of the travails the literary icon went through to ensure an egalitarian society, Abiodun recalled that Soyinka was imprisoned for 22 months during the Nigerian Civil War on charges of conspiring with the Biafra secessionists, saying despite that, he remains resolute for a better society.
The former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, in his remarks, described Soyinka as a champion of democracy and the promoter of human dignity.