Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka Advocates For Break Up Of Nigeria To Solve Nation’s Problems

During the 50th-anniversary lecture of PUNCH Newspapers in Lagos, Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka made a compelling case for Nigeria’s decentralization as a solution to the country’s challenges, suggesting that Nigeria should break up if it would lead to the resolution of its problems.

In his lecture titled ‘Recovering the Narrative,’ Soyinka emphasized the need for decentralization to bring governance closer to the people, enabling Nigerians to have a greater sense of ownership and enjoyment of their country.

Speaking as part of the weeklong celebration of PUNCH’s 50th anniversary, the elder statesman underscored the importance of leaders recognizing the necessity of decentralization and restructuring. Soyinka criticized the inconsistency of Nigerian politicians who advocate for restructuring but change their stance once in power.

Soyinka stressed the urgency for leaders to stop misleading the nation and to acknowledge the burden of security challenges faced by citizens across the country. He emphasized the need for decentralization to empower local governments and enhance productivity through citizen involvement.

PUNCH, Nigeria’s foremost newspaper, celebrated its 50th anniversary on March 18 last year. However, due to coinciding with an election period, the celebration was postponed to this year. The anniversary coincides with the 40th anniversary of the death of PUNCH’s founding Chairman, Chief James Olubunmi Aboderin, who passed away on February 28, 1984, at the age of fifty.