Nigerian Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka Says U.S. Visa Has Been Revoked

Nobel prize-winning author and dramatist Wole Soyinka said his U.S. visa denial was indicative of a larger issue. The first African to win the 1986 Nobel Prize in Literature, Soyinka, 91, said he received a letter from the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos seeking his passport for visa revocation. The notice stated that “additional information became available after the visa was issued,” but provided no explanation.

Fairness outweighs US travel, Soyinka told reporters. He stated everyone deserves dignity regardless of ethnicity. He will not reapply for a visa. His statements show his support for Nigerian and international human rights and free expression.

Soyinka also suggested that his criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump led to the suspension. Trump was called “white version of Idi Amin” by Soyinka in previous interviews. The connection may have been unpopular, he joked. After Trump’s win, Soyinka tore up his green card in 2016 as a rebel gesture.

Soyinka has taught at top American universities and maintained literary and intellectual contacts. Immigration restrictions and politics influence famous academics, as shown by his visa revocation. He has no intentions to visit the U.S. again, but increased visa restrictions are concerning.

Many Nigerians were affected by U.S. visa policy changes. Five-year multiple-entry Nigerian non-immigrant visas were replaced by three-month single-entry permits this year. Many believed Soyinka’s case changed U.S. policy toward foreign educators and critics.

Soyinka believes the problem is beyond his expertise. He stated this action sets a bad precedent and proves academic freedom and personal values cost. Despite revocation, he complains voice suppression and unfair treatment.

Sources
Associated Press
Reuters
The Guardian
Al Jazeera