In a notable meeting that unfolded yesterday, Nobel laureate Prof Wole Soyinka paid a visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos.
The meeting centred on a comprehensive seven-point agenda that encapsulated the esteemed laureate’s expectations and concerns.
Following the meeting at the President’s private residence, Prof Soyinka engaged with reporters to shed light on the discussions that transpired.
Notably, he revealed his conscious decision to refrain from critiquing the government at this juncture, citing the belief that it is still too early for such assessments.
The meeting between these influential figures underscores the significance of their dialogue on a seven-point agenda, implying a nuanced and multi-faceted approach to addressing pertinent issues.
The specifics of the agenda were not immediately disclosed, fostering curiosity and anticipation about the potential impact on the socio-political landscape.
Given Prof Soyinka’s reputation as a thought leader and advocate for societal progress, his decision to withhold criticism suggests a deliberate and strategic approach to engaging with the current administration. This restraint may be rooted in a desire to allow sufficient time for the government to implement policies and initiatives before subjecting them to scrutiny.
The choice of Lagos, a significant political and economic hub, as the backdrop for this meeting adds symbolic weight to the deliberations. It highlights the importance of regional perspectives and the need for collaboration between influential figures to navigate the complexities of governance.
As the details of the seven-point agenda remain undisclosed, the public is left to ponder the potential implications of this high-profile meeting. The convergence of two influential figures—each with a distinct impact on Nigerian society—creates an atmosphere of intrigue and expectation. The outcome of this meeting may shape the narrative surrounding the government’s trajectory and Prof Soyinka’s role in contributing to the national discourse.
Soyinka said: “My first visit, actually it was an embarrassing visit because when I visited him the last time, it was to try and persuade him not to run for office.
“I think I’ve written about that. I told Atiku and himself that they should please leave the ground for young people. That was the last time we met, about five years ago.
“I call him, secretly, Olorikunkun (a stubborn man). So, he ignored my advice completely.
“So, I came to see how’s doing after neglecting my advice, I wanted to see if both he and his wife were weathering Nigeria as well as can be expected and to wish them happy Christmas. You know we’re friends, as you know, very well, and it was as a friend that I told him don’t run, leave this thing alone, but he ignored me.
“So, I have this personal policy, whether it’s Obasanjo o, Buhari o, or Jonathan, you will notice that during the first year, I hardly say anything, then people will ask me why are you not talking and I will tell them, go and ask the last person whether I spoke during the first year. So, I’m adopting the same principle. At the end of one year, ask me this question.”
