Prof. Wole Soyinka: Withholding Assessments of Tinubu’s Administration Until One Year In

Renowned Nigerian scholar Professor Wole Soyinka revealed on Sunday his decision to withhold any critical observations or remarks regarding President Bola Tinubu’s administration until a year into Tinubu’s tenure in May 2024.

Speaking about his stance during a courtesy visit to the President in Lagos, Soyinka expressed this as a personal policy, explaining that this one-year waiting period allows sufficient time for the President to address any setbacks.

“When heads of state assume office, I usually leave them alone for about the first year because they need time. Often they don’t start from ground zero but even lower, and they have ground to cover,” Soyinka explained, detailing his approach.

The Nobel laureate hinted at adopting a similar approach this time, urging for patience and the opportunity to assess Tinubu’s progress after a year.

Soyinka referred to the visit as “embarrassing,” disclosing that he presented the President with a seven-point agenda for discussion, the specifics of which he chose not to disclose.

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Elaborating on the context of his visit, Soyinka recalled his previous encounter with Tinubu about five years ago when he attempted to dissuade both Tinubu and Atiku from seeking office, advocating instead for younger leaders to take the helm. Reflecting on the past advice he gave and the current state of affairs, he mentioned his visit aimed to check on the President and his wife’s well-being amid the country’s challenges and to extend festive greetings.

Soyinka’s decision to withhold opinions underscores his measured approach to evaluate the new administration’s progress, emphasizing the importance of allowing leaders time to navigate challenges and deliver on their promises before making critical assessments.