Renowned playwright and Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has called on President Bola Tinubu to authorise a fresh investigation into a string of unresolved political murders, including those of Dele Giwa, Bola Ige, and Kudirat Abiola, describing such action as crucial for national healing.
Speaking in Lagos during a media chat tied to Nigeria’s Democracy Day commemorations, Soyinka expressed deep concern over the lack of justice in these historic cases.
“These were not ordinary deaths. They marked brutal turning points in our national journey,” Soyinka said. “Even now, there are people, home and abroad, who may hold information. But they won’t speak until they see real commitment.”
While acknowledging the recent Democracy Day honours conferred by the Tinubu administration, Soyinka pointed out that many critical figures in the pro-democracy movement were left out. He announced that he would dedicate his own recognition to the late Dr. Beko Ransom-Kuti, whom he hailed as a tireless fighter for civil liberties.
Soyinka’s comments come amid controversy surrounding the list of honorees, with the presidency denying claims that activists like Aisha Yesufu were included.
The June 12 Democracy Day celebration also saw President Tinubu posthumously honour Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine with national awards and state pardons, marking the first time a sitting Nigerian president officially acknowledged their role in the country’s democratic struggle.