Soyinka started fighting for justice when he was in his teens — Lekan Alabi

The Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, in this interview with MOYOSORE SALAMI, speaks on the 90th birthday anniversary of Prof. Wole Soyinka, sharing some of his encounters with him and his understanding of the personality of Africa’s first Nobel Laureate. In 1967, you wrote a letter to Soyinka; how do you feel that the same man you wrote a letter to 57 years ago is celebrating his 90th birthday today? Reflecting on the journey from writing a letter to Wole Soyinka in 1967 to celebrating his 90th birthday today, I am deeply moved and honoured. Back then, as a young student, I felt compelled to advocate for his release from unjust detention during Nigeria’s civil war. Over the years, our paths crossed in various ways, from interviewing him on my television programme to meeting him personally after his release. His resilience and contributions to literature and social justice have inspired me greatly. As he turns 90, I am filled with joy and gratitude for his life and accomplishments, and I celebrate alongside many who admire his courage and intellect. What attracted you to Soyinka? It’s difficult to explain it purely in human terms—it feels almost divinely inspired. His roots in Isara Remo and Abeokuta resonated deeply with me as an Ibadan native. His self-identification as ‘Ijegba’, blending Ijebu and Egba cultures, added to his allure. When people ask what led me to write on his behalf all those years ago, I attribute it to this divine connection. This connection was so profound that I titled my tribute to him on his 80th birthday as “The Lion and the Cub”. It’s an admiration that goes beyond words, rooted in a spiritual affinity that has guided my respect and advocacy for him throughout the years. You idolise Soyinka; why have you not shaped your life like his? Well, without being immodest, I admire Soyinka deeply, and if you delve into my past and history, you will find significant parallels between his journey in the arts and literature and my own. Can you share some of the similarities? Certainly! Like Prof. Wole Soyinka, I began my journey in the arts as an actor during my secondary school years, where I gained recognition for my performances. Over time, I have authored 25 books, establishing a significant presence in the literary world. These achievements parallel Soyinka’s legacy in both acting and literature. It’s clear to observers that I have been greatly influenced and inspired by Prof. Wole Soyinka’s accomplishments. How do you think Soyinka has impacted humanity? Ha! Prof. Wole Soyinka’s impact on humanity is profound and enduring. His journey began in his teens when he joined his aunt, the late Mama Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, during the historic Egba Women’s Riot, which ultimately led to significant social change. Since then, Soyinka has been a relentless advocate for justice, using his literary prowess and public voice to challenge injustice and champion human rights. His lifelong commitment to speaking truth to power has inspired generations and left an indelible mark on the global fight for equity and fairness. What would you say that Soyinka has not been able to do for the nation and his admirers? When I visited him in 2002, I posed a question in my speech: “Sir, you and your surviving colleagues must ponder: Was the sacrifice, the risking of your lives, truly worthwhile for our nation? Is Nigeria a cause worthy of such sacrifices?” These reflections include thoughts of those who lost their lives, especially during the oppressive era of Sani Abacha’s military regime. As a fellow human being, I believe Soyinka has made significant efforts. Now, at 90, should he continue to champion human rights? It’s a question that calls for introspection from all Nigerians. So, he has been excellent in all fronts? Soyinka, being human, is not infallible. However, when evaluating his impact, consider if he is the sole individual who has made a difference. Did he benefit financially from his efforts? No, he acted pro bono, without compensation for his fight for justice. He dedicated his life to advocating morality, accountability and integrity in governance, earning the distinction of being Africa’s first Nobel Laureate. That achievement alone speaks volumes undoubtedly a testament to his success. You claim to be braver than Soyinka as a youth; what makes you believe that? I consider myself braver than Soyinka in my youth because, at 17, I defended a future Nobel Laureate, which he never did. If you find anyone else who defended someone, whether dead or alive, who later became a Nobel Laureate, then we would be on equal footing. My assertion stems from my defence of him in 1967, and his subsequent recognition as Africa’s first Nobel Laureate in 1986. Can you elaborate on what specific instances or experiences that informed this belief? My belief stems from specific instances in my life where I took bold actions. For instance, I served as the founding Secretary General of MKO Abiola’s Dynamic Group, which bravely confronted General Ibrahim Babangida over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. We risked our lives to challenge Babangida publicly at a world press conference held at the NUJ Oyo State Council Press Centre on June 18, 1993, demanding accountability for annulling Nigeria’s most credible election. Additionally, I was part of the Association of Democracy in Nigeria (ADIN), which published a defiant advertisement congratulating MKO Abiola as the incoming president, directly challenging Babangida’s regime. These actions, like Soyinka’s endeavours, were undertaken pro bono, driven solely by a sense of justice and duty. Throughout my career, including as Press Secretary to the late Governor Bola Ige of old Oyo State and serving under three military successors, I have consistently acted with integrity and courage. These experiences have shaped my belief that I have shown bravery akin to defending a future Nobel Laureate, reflecting my commitment to standing up for principles and justice. Were there any specific situations where you took risks or stood up for what was right that Professor Soyinka didn’t or vice versa? There were instances where I took risks and stood up for what was right that Professor Soyinka did not, and vice versa. For example, I served as the founding Secretary General of MKO Abiola’s Dynamic Group, challenging General Ibrahim Babangida over the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. This was a significant risk taken to uphold democratic principles. On the other hand, Professor Soyinka famously seized the broadcast tape of Ladoke Akintola at Radio Nigeria, demonstrating his boldness in confronting injustice through direct action. These actions were not driven by financial or political motives but by a genuine commitment to social justice and accountability. Each of us has played our part in different ways, guided by our own convictions and circumstances, to make a positive impact on our society. The post Soyinka started fighting for justice when he was in his teens — Lekan Alabi appeared first on Guardian Nigeria News.