Soyinka Rejects U.S. Visa Re-Interview Over 9/11 Date, Loses Visa

Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka says he turned down a U.S. visa re-interview scheduled for September 11, calling the date “uncomfortable” due to its link with the 9/11 attacks.

Speaking in Lagos, the 91-year-old writer revealed that the U.S. Embassy later revoked his visa, citing new information discovered after issuance. The embassy also requested he return the visa for cancellation, an order he described humorously.

Soyinka said he wouldn’t seek another visa, noting he owes the U.S. nothing and has no interest in reapplying. He, however, maintained that he holds no grudge against Americans.

The development follows recent stricter U.S. visa rules for Nigerians, including shorter validity periods and mandatory disclosure of social media accounts.