Wole Soyinka condemns Tinubu’s SOE on Rivers, calls for constitutional review

Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has condemned the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State and the declaration of a state of emergency, stating that it goes against the principles of federalism.

Speaking to an international news outlet, Soyinka argued that the 1999 constitution grants excessive power to the president, calling for a national discussion to address the issue.

“If it is constitutionally right, then I think it is about time we sat down and amended the constitution to make sure that it operates as a genuine federal entity,” he said.

He further emphasized that Nigeria’s current governance system is overly centralized, which is unsuitable for a pluralistic society like Nigeria.

“The system we are operating right now is not the best for a pluralistic society like ours. That is a fundamental principle I have always held,” he added.

Soyinka reiterated the need for a national conference to establish a truly representative constitution, stating that the federal spirit of association must be upheld to ensure a more balanced governance structure.