As the Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka celebrates his 85th birthday anniversary, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on Saturday described the literary giant as a selfless pathfinder and great African pride.
In a press statement signed Ooni’s director of media and public affairs, Comrade Moses Olafare, the monarch said “Professor Soyinka has always shown unalloyed concerns for the younger and future generations,” calling him a “true pan-Africanist and an incorruptible Nigerian patriot who has remained undistracted from promoting the traditions and cultural values of his native Yoruba race.”
Oba Ogunwusi described the world-renowned playwright and novelist as an “undisputed globally known face of justice, voice of truth and character of selfless service to humanity with six decades of unrelenting masses oriented activism.”
The statement reads “the man popularly called Kongi is noted for his intellectual contributions towards the development of Nigeria’s national interest and his commendable fight for the common people through several works of art like plays, poetry, prose as well as his directional public statements to cheer or jeer public policies as they affect the innocent masses.
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“You are the pride of the prestigious Yoruba nation as you are known for promoting our native culture and traditions. Over the years, you have lived a unique life worthy of emulation through hard work, discipline and an uncommon love for your fatherland. You are indeed globally known face of justice, the voice of truth and character of selfless service to humanity with six decades of unrelenting masses oriented activism.
“On behalf of the entire House of Oduduwa worldwide, I am elated to facilitate with you as you clock 85 years of age. I heartily pray the Almighty Olodumare (God) shall bless your age with health and prosperity to keep enjoying the good,” the statement added.
and then