The first African author to win the Nobel in literature, Soyinka has been an outspoken critic of governments worldwide.
The United States has revoked the visa of Nigerian author and playwright Wole Soyinka, who became the first African author to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986.
Speaking at Kongi’s Harvest Gallery in Lagos on Tuesday, Soyinka read aloud from a notice he recently received from the local US consulate, asking him to arrive with his passport so that his visa could be nullified.
“Bring your visa to the US Consulate General Lagos for physical cancellation. To schedule an appointment, please email — et cetera, et cetera — in advance of the appointment,” Soyinka said, skimming the letter.
Closing his laptop, the author joked with the audience that he did not have time to fulfil the request.
“I like people who have a sense of humour, and this is one of the most humorous sentences or requests I’ve had of my life,” Soyinka said.
“Would any of you like to volunteer to take my place? Take it for me? I’m a little bit busy and rushed.”
Soyinka’s visa was issued last year, under US President Joe Biden.
Continue Reading on Al Jazeera
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.