The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has congratulated Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, describing him as a living legend whose life embodies courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Adebayo said Soyinka’s remarkable contributions to literature, democracy and the defence of human rights have continued to inspire generations across Nigeria, Africa and the wider world.
The former presidential candidate said he conveyed the goodwill message on behalf of his family, friends, supporters and the Social Democratic Party.
“I warmly congratulate Professor Wole Soyinka on the joyous occasion of his 92nd birthday. Your extraordinary life has remained a shining symbol of courage, intellect, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice,” Adebayo said.
He noted that Soyinka, as Africa’s first Nobel Laureate in Literature, has inspired generations through his literary brilliance, principled advocacy and steadfast defence of truth, freedom, democracy and human dignity.
According to him, the literary icon’s legacy continues to inspire millions to uphold the values of justice, freedom and responsible citizenship.
“For decades, you have consistently stood on the side of justice, speaking truth to power and reminding leaders and citizens alike that nation-building demands courage, sacrifice, accountability and moral leadership.
Your influence extends far beyond Nigeria and Africa, leaving an enduring imprint on global literature, democratic ideals and the struggle for human rights,” he said.
Adebayo prayed for Soyinka’s continued good health and strength, expressing optimism that the elder statesman would continue to make meaningful contributions to Nigeria, Africa and humanity
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Also celebrating the Nobel Laureate, the SDP National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, described Soyinka as a moral compass whose commitment to truth has remained steadfast despite the nation’s challenges.
Aiyenigba said Soyinka has consistently served as a beacon of excellence and a source of hope, inspiring Nigerians to remain optimistic during difficult times.
“Prof. Wole Soyinka is celebrated in Nigeria and worldwide as a reliable moral compass that always points toward truth, no matter how fiercely the storm raged.
“He is greatly revered for being a beacon of excellence; a source of hope that has kept Nigerians motivated and optimistic during the nation’s challenging situations.
“As a guiding light, he has, in all his adult life, constantly shone light and mapped out a safe path forward in the darkness of society, and his words have acted as a constellation impacting human society,” he said.
The party also said it cherished its relationship with Soyinka, particularly through its National Secretary, Dr Olu Agunloye, whom it described as one of the Nobel Laureate’s protégés.
Born on July 13, 1934, Soyinka became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986. Renowned for his plays, novels, poetry and essays, he has earned global acclaim for his advocacy of democracy, human rights and good governance, remaining one of Nigeria’s most influential public intellectuals.