At 92, Soyinka remains a shining star, says Fasoranti

By Oluseye Ojo

Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has paid glowing tributes to the Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, describing him as a  shining star and a rare gift, whose positive impact transcends ethnic, national and racial boundaries.

In a congratulatory message to mark Soyinka’s birthday yesterday, July 13, Fasoranti said the literary icon remains a source of pride to the Yoruba race, Nigeria and the African continent.

The message, conveyed by Afenifere’s national publicity secretary, Mr. Jare Ajayi, quoted the elder statesman as saying, “Professor Wole Soyinka is one of the brightly shining stars any race could have. We are grateful to the Almighty God that such a rare breed comes from among us and has been able to make positive impacts on the firmament of human existence.

“It is a thing of joy that the hero today, July 13, is marking his 92nd year on the surface of the earth.”

Fasoranti stated that the contributions of the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, to literature, culture, democracy and human rights, have earned him global admiration.

According to the Afenifere leader, the celebration of Soyinka’s 92nd birthday is particularly significant because of the active and impactful life he has continued to live.

He noted that Soyinka, fondly known as ‘Kongi’ after one of the memorable characters in his plays, began his career as a teacher, writer and human rights activist before rising to international prominence as a playwright, essayist, novelist, poet, singer, actor, composer, director and public affairs commentator.

He also lauded Soyinka’s commitment to justice, democracy and good governance, describing the ideals as defining features of his life’s work beyond his literary accomplishments.

“In view of the quantum of activities he packed into his robust life, we thank the Almighty God for giving him the grace to attain over 90 years on earth with such vigour, mentally and physically,” he said.

The elder statesman prayed that Soyinka would live to celebrate his 100th birthday and beyond in good health, expressing the hope that he would also witness the emergence of a Nigeria that every citizen would be proud of.

Fasoranti, who celebrated his own 100th birthday on May 11 this year, further prayed that the celebrated playwright would remain alive for many more years, as he continues to be a shining star.

Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on July 13, 1934, Prof Oluwole Akinwande Babatunde Soyinka made history in 1986 when he became the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, cementing his place as one of the world’s most influential literary figures and outspoken advocates of justice and human freedom.