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ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has named the 12.5 kilometres Kemta-Idi Aba-Somorin road in Abeokuta, after the Noble Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka.
Governor Abiodun, who spoke at a reception organized by the state government to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Noble Laureate, in Abeokuta, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, said the naming of the road after the world renowned playright was as a result of his achievements in the academia and literature that has brought honour not only to Ogun State and Nigeria, but 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,” Prince Abiodun said.
The governor noted 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 transcending cultural boundaries.
“His career span 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, Governor Abiodun said he was imprisoned during the Nigerian civil war on charges of conspiring with the Biafran succesionists where he spent 22 months, adding that despite that, he still remains resolute for a better society.
He congratulated the celebrant for attaining the age of 90 and prayed for more fruitful years ahead.
The former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, while supervising the cutting of the birthday cake, described Prof. Soyinka as a champion of democracy and the promoter of human dignity.
Dignitaries, including former governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, amongst others, attended the event.
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