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https://theconversation.com/wole-soyinka-at-90-writer-and-activist-for-justice-234489>
"Akinwande Oluwole Soyinka, the legendary African author and activist, is proof
of what words and acts can achieve in the struggle for justice and human
rights. Soyinka, aged 90, embodies unrelenting activism and literary
excellence.
The importance of Soyinka’s work lies in demonstrating the powerful role of the
arts and artists in society. He has shown that literature and artistic
expression can be formidable tools for challenging oppression, advocating for
justice and inspiring social change.
From his early plays and poems to his recent essays and speeches, Soyinka has
consistently addressed political corruption, social injustice and human rights
abuses – often at great personal risk. His works galvanise readers and
audiences to think critically and act courageously.
Soyinka’s approach was shaped by his upbringing and personal experiences.
Growing up in colonial Nigeria, he was exposed to oppression and inequality
from an early age. His education, which combined traditional African culture
with western literary influences, equipped him to express his vision of justice
and freedom. Political imprisonment and exile further fuelled his resolve to
use his voice and pen as instruments of resistance.
This is evident in his outspoken criticism of various Nigerian governments.
The Open Sore of a Continent, a work in which he condemned the military
dictatorship of Sani Abacha, affirms this. His founding of a political party,
the Democratic Front for a People’s Federation, in 2010 further shows his
commitment to political activism.
As a lecturer in African literature, I teach and study Soyinka’s work and have
come to appreciate him as an unswerving critic of tyranny. He is also a
masterful storyteller.
Soyinka’s story takes us from a little child in Nigeria to a Nobel laureate and
an international symbol of resistance."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
