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Wole Soyinka: The Man Who Lives Against Oppression at 90

Published

1 year ago

July 14, 2024

Eric

By Lekan Alabi

No doubt, Akinwande Oluwole Soyinka is a big elephant in a forest of hope to generations of men and women across the globe. The part of the elephant you touch depends on what he stands for and against in a social political setting. To the pre-colonial generation, Soyinka “was anti-elitism and anti-colonial mentality,” with a deliberate message against a cultural reorientation and indoctrination that lazy minds largely tag as cultism. To the post-colonial generation, Soyinka was a torn in the flesh of pseudo-democratic rulers, military dictators and their civilian collaborators. To the generation of the apartheid regimes, Soyinka deployed all his God-given gifts against these regimes that socialised and related to others on the basis of skin colour. The whole essence of Soyinka, right from the Ake era till date is justice and humanity.

In celebrating Soyinka at 90, it will not serve any useful purpose to regurgitate Soyinka’s odyssey, which has been over-flogged in books, seminars, plays, music, lectures, symposia and literary criticism by cultural activists, policy makers, scholars and students alike.

“The Mystery Gunman,” through his roles in history, particularly in the political turmoil of the defunct Western Region of Nigeria, in the First Republic, which resulted in Operation Wetie that enveloped the West, displayed an uncommon courage against the fascistic tendency of the political class. The singular act of demystification of the instrument of state, created young agitators against the election riggings and riggers, political violence and repression.

It is historically correct to state that Soyinka is a man of conscience who sees humanity as one without a toga of ethnic colouration. This position was noticeable during the Nigerian Civil War. While some revered scholars became megaphones of the war, Soyinka took to the path of humanity and decency by rigorously campaigning against the war mongers on both sides, which led to his incarceration by the military junta. Of course, the unusual life threatening but noble venture encouraged his followers of the possibility of another force/movement which mobilised against the war.

It is not a hyperbole to call Soyinka the Pride of Africa, as he has been leading from the front against the abuse of power, military dictatorships and ‘sit tightism’ of African rulers, alongside human rights abuses, and the struggle against racial discriminations in some African countries. This service to humanity has led to generations of the old and young, who look up to him as their role model.

It is important to state that Soyinka was the arrowhead of the struggle against the liquidation of the military dictatorship in Nigeria. He took the de-annulment of the 12 June 1993 election to the global limelight, with all the risks involved. No wonder that Henry Louis Gates, jnr. says that, “If the spirit of African democracy has a voice and a face, they belong to Wole Soyinka.” I couldn’t agree more.

His scholarly exploits in literature was crowned in 1986 when he became the first African Winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. The significance of this award was an upsurge of youths and young persons in Nigeria who developed the love for literature, human rights activism and the campaign for an open society.

The institutionalisation of the essence of Wole Soyinka is the best way to appreciate his sacrifice for a just cause on earth. It is highly commendable to note that the promoters of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, among other public-spirited organisations taking on the identity of the man of all seasons, are paying the debt on our behalf.

At 90, the son of “Wild Christian” stands tall, fit as a fiddle, and lives the life of a colossal crusader against oppression in any part of the world.

Lekan Alabi is a legal practitioner and consultant.

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Tinubu Reiterates Directive on Withdrawal of VIP Police Protection

Published

5 hours ago

December 10, 2025

Eric

President Bola Tinubu has insisted on his earlier directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers from very important persons (VIPs) in the country.

On November 23, Tinubu ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs across the country during a security meeting with the inspector-general of police (IGP), the chiefs of army and air staff, and the director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The president said the move was aimed at boosting police presence in communities, especially remote areas where stations are understaffed and citizens remain vulnerable to attacks.

Speaking at the opening of the federal executive council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, Tinubu warned against non-compliance and directed Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA); Ibrahim Gaidam, minister of police; and Kayode Egbetokun, the IGP, to follow up on the implementation of the order.

The president noted that police officers were trained to protect the lives and property of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable in society, adding that the protection of a select group of VIPs is not their responsibility.

The president ordered Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the minister of interior, to make arrangements for the replacement of police officers by civil defence corps.

“If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignments, please contact the IGP and get my clearance,” he said.

“The National Security and Civil Defence Corps are trained for VIP protection, and they are armed too.

“We face challenges here and there of kidnapping, banditry and terrorism. We need all forces utilised. I know some people are exposed; we will make the exceptions. The civil defence is very much around.”

Tinubu said there is a need to mobilise the police appropriately due to the country’s security challenges.

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Glo TV Fetes Subscribers with Four New Exclusive Movies for Free

Published

9 hours ago

December 10, 2025

Eric

Globacom has launched four brand-new movies on Glo TV, offering subscribers access to premium, never-before-seen entertainment at no cost whatsoever. The announcement underscores the company’s commitment to enriching the digital entertainment space and celebrating African storytelling on a world-class platform.

According to Globacom, the new titles feature some of the continent’s finest actors, presenting a compelling spectrum of romance, comedy, drama, and cultural expression. The exclusive films include Johnny Just Come (JJC), Eko Vibes, Bound, and Shifting Desire.

“Each of these movies has been carefully curated to showcase diverse African narratives while providing exceptional entertainment that is not available in cinemas, on YouTube, or on any other VoD platform. Access remains entirely FREE, with no subscription or payment required,” the company revealed.

Leading the slate is Shifting Desire, a stirring romantic drama starring Lilian Afegbai and celebrated Ghanaian actor Majid Michel. The film chronicles a couple’s turbulent journey through marriage, betrayal and emotional healing, culminating in therapy-driven reconciliation. It premiered on Glo TV on 2 December and is already streaming without charge.

Also in the lineup is Johnny Just Come (JJC), a humorous cultural mash-up featuring screen legend Patience Ozokwor alongside Nancy Isime. It follows an American suitor navigating the challenges of love and marriage within a traditional African family circle, exploring themes of identity, culture and belonging with comedic flair.

The emotional drama Bound, starring Rita Dominic and Eyinna Nwigwe, delves into the life of a career-driven woman haunted by a buried personal secret, and the devastating effect it has on her relationships. The film delivers an arresting narrative powered by some of Nollywood’s most compelling performances.

Completing the selection is Eko Vibes, a vibrant portrayal of the energy, ambition and hustle of Lagos youth culture. Featuring Broda Shaggi, Josh2Funny and Nkechi Blessing, it captures the dreams and grit of young Nigerians striving to make their mark in Africa’s most dynamic city.

Globacom stated that the release reflects its dedication to amplifying original African content. “With these never-before-seen titles, Glo TV is redefining digital entertainment in Nigeria by offering fresh, premium films unavailable anywhere else. We remain committed to championing culturally rich stories that celebrate African creativity at its peak,” it affirmed.

While Shifting Desire is already available, the remaining titles will debut on Glo TV free of charge throughout the festive season. The Glo TV app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, giving subscribers instant access to movies, series, live television and exclusive premium content anytime, anywhere.

Globacom urges customers to download the Glo TV app today and enjoy these exciting new premieres — all at absolutely no cost.

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New Platform, Same People-Oriented Agenda: Abimboye Declares Support for Gov Adeleke

Published

14 hours ago

December 10, 2025

Eric

Media executive and politician, Michael Babatunde Abimboye, popularly known as Omo Ajonbadi, has thrown his full weight behind the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Jackson Adeleke, following the Governor’s historic adoption of the Accord Party as his new political platform.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Abimboye described the Governor’s decision as courageous, strategic, and people-driven, noting that it reflects a leadership style firmly anchored in the collective will and aspirations of the people of Osun State.

According to him, the move signals a renewed commitment to inclusive governance, grassroots development, and policies that place the welfare of citizens above partisan considerations. He emphasized that the Governor’s political direction aligns with the yearnings of ordinary Osun people for continuity, stability, and sustained development.

Abimboye further reaffirmed his total solidarity with Governor Adeleke and declared his readiness to mobilize support at the grassroots level ahead of the forthcoming re-election. He expressed confidence that the yellow identity of the Accord Party symbolizes unity, progress, and victory for the state.

He added that Osun’s future remains promising when leadership listens to the people and citizens stand resolutely behind a shared vision of growth and transformation.

The statement concluded with a note of optimism, describing the new political journey as a pathway to accelerated development and stronger democratic participation across the state.