The Vice Chancellor  of University of Ilorin,  Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, his Kwara State University, Malete counterpart, Prof. AbdulRasheed Na’Allah, as well as the President, Association of Nigerian Authors, Mr. Remi Raji,  have described the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, as a true Nigerian whose    literary and political achievements are epochal.

In interviews with our correspondent during the presentation of two books -  Ilorin Praise Poetry and Cultural globalisation and plurality,  in Ilorin on Tuesday,  they stated that Soyinka remained a celebrated icon even at 78.  The books were written by Na’Allah.

They, however, said writing was not an easy task in Nigeria, given the prevailing harsh environment. They called for an improvement in reading culture in the country, adding that the government should provide enabling environment for writers to maximise their potentials.

For Oloyede, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, UNILORIN, Prof. Raheem Lawal,  the Nobel Laureate  is an icon and one whose life is exemplary.

"He is meteor, so to speak.  His life epitomizes all that is worthy about a writer, a Nigerian and a citizen of the world. He is worthy to be celebrated. Whether you celebrate him or not, he is celebrated. He is a total scholar.   A total scholar does not detach himself from the society. For him, politics is just an extension of literature. A writer cannot be socially relevant if he does not prove his theory," Oloyede said.

Na’Allah described Soyinka as an enigma.

He said, "Soyinka is an enigma and  a legend.   He  was the first to win the Noble Prize in Africa in 1986.  He represents for Africa what Shakespares represents for Europe and the world.  I call him Soyinka of the World. It is even diminishing to call him Soyinka of Nigeria.

"He is of Nigeria because we are proud of him but he is Soyinka of the world."

Raji described Soyinka as complete writer.

Raji said, "Soyinka believes that writing must not just make meaning on the pages of paper. Writing must have meaning on the street.  It must touch the hearts of politicians, businessmen or people who are in positions of administration and who can develop this country. 

"I think that is what he stands for.

"Soyinka is not one who is interested in being president or governor.  He just wants to get our society working again."