Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has named the 12.5-kilometre Kemta-Idi Aba-Somorin road in Abeokuta after the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka.
The announcement was made during a reception organized by the state government to celebrate Soyinka’s 90th birthday on Wednesday.
Governor Abiodun explained that the road was named in honor of Soyinka due to his significant achievements in academia and literature, which have brought prestige not only to Ogun State and Nigeria but also to the entire black race.
He praised Soyinka for using his writings to expose human conditions and for showcasing the rich and beautiful African culture to the world.
“Prof. Wole Soyinka is a towering figure in literature and a Nobel Laureate whose works have echoed across the world. A shining star of our great nation, his life and work are great testaments to his genius. His intellectual prowess and unwavering dedication to humanity’s advancement are without question,” said Abiodun.
The governor highlighted that reaching the age of 90 is a testament to the grace of God and thanked President Bola Tinubu for renaming the National Arts Theatre in Lagos after Soyinka, acknowledging it as a well-deserved honor.
Abiodun emphasized Soyinka’s career in academia, literature, and activism, noting his commitment to truth, justice, and the creation of a just and equitable world.
He recalled Soyinka’s imprisonment during the Nigerian civil war for allegedly conspiring with the Biafran secessionists, where he spent 22 months, yet remained steadfast in his resolve for a better society.
The former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, while overseeing the cutting of the birthday cake, described Prof. Soyinka as a champion of democracy and a promoter of human dignity.
The event was attended by dignitaries including former Ogun State Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba and former Minister of Transportation Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, among others.
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