The Social Democratic Party, SDP, has described Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, as a global icon, moral compass, and one of Nigeria’s most enduring voices for truth, justice, and national transformation.
This is contained in a congratulatory message on his 92nd birthday signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba in Abuja.
The statement says Professor Soyinka’s life and contributions have continued to inspire generations of Nigerians and people across the world.
It notes that Soyinka remains a symbol of excellence, integrity, courage, and intellectual depth, whose unwavering commitment to truth and nation-building has earned him global respect and admiration.
According to the statement, the Nobel Laureate has consistently served as a guiding light in Nigeria’s democratic journey, offering hope and direction during periods of national challenges through his writings, activism, and principled interventions on critical national issues.
The statement recalls that Professor Soyinka made history in 1986 as the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, an achievement that placed African literature and intellectual scholarship on the global stage.
It further states that Soyinka’s towering accomplishments and sacrifices in the service of humanity continue to inspire its commitment to democracy, justice, and the pursuit of a better Nigerian society.
The statement also highlights its cherished relationship with the elder statesman, particularly through the party’s National Secretary, Dr. Olu Agunloye, whom it described as one of Soyinka’s protégés.
It prays for continued good health, strength, and fulfilment for the renowned playwright, poet, and activist, expressing hope that Nigeria, Africa, and the global community would continue to benefit from his vast knowledge and wisdom for many years to come.
“Professor Wole Soyinka remains a shining light, whose words and actions have continued to shape society and inspire humanity’s quest for justice, truth, and freedom,” Aiyenigba adds.
