Human rights activist, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, has described the life of Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, as a summary of Nigeria’s tempestuous history, as he attains 92 on Monday. 

Mrs Okei-Odumakin, President of the Centre for Change, spoke in a statement on Sunday in Lagos to celebrate the consummate playwright, essayist and critic. 

She said Soyinka’s life manifested  dedication to the ideals that generations of Nigerians had lived and strived for.

“Prof. Soyinka’s life is a summary of Nigeria’s tempestuous history. It is also a manifestation of dedication to the ideals we have lived and strived for as a nation for generations,” she said.

Mrs Okei-Odumakin also described Soyinka as Nigeria’s permanent ambassador plenipotentiary, noting that his global impact in literature significantly enhanced the country’s international image.

“As a Nobel Laureate, he remains Nigeria’s permanent ambassador plenipotentiary.His towering image in the global community of letters is a prominent positive component of our nation’s international visage,” she said.

Mrs Okei-Odumakin also commended Mr Soyinka’s enduring commitment to service to his community and the entire Nigeria, describing it as a virtue that earned him a distinguished place in Nigeria’s hall of fame.

“We honour this living legend for his unwavering stand against injustice and oppression locally and globally,” she added.

Mrs Okei-Odumakin prayed for continued well-being of the elder statesman, wishing him a longer life in good health.

“May he live longer in vibrant health,” she said.

Soyinka is regarded as one of the globally influential writers and public intellectuals.