Nobel Laureate and renowned Nigerian writer, Professor Wole Soyinka, has revealed that the United States government, under President Donald Trump, has permanently revoked his visa to the country.
Soyinka made this disclosure on Tuesday during a press briefing at Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos Island, where he addressed journalists about the development.
The literary icon expressed shock over the decision, saying he was unaware of any wrongdoing that could have warranted such action from the US authorities.
“I was taken completely by surprise,” Soyinka said. “It is necessary for me to hold this conference so that those in the United States expecting me for certain events do not waste their time.”
According to him, the decision was officially communicated through a letter from the US Consulate, which confirmed the withdrawal of his visa without stating any specific reason.
“I have no visa; I am obviously banned from the United States. And if you want to see me, you know where to find me,” he added with a touch of humour.
Soyinka suggested that the move might be politically motivated, describing it as a possible witch-hunt.
He noted that he had since begun reflecting on his past to understand what could have prompted the revocation.
“I’ve started thinking, have I ever misbehaved toward the United States of America? Do I have any criminal record? Have I ever gone against the law anywhere?” he asked.
The decision has sparked surprise among observers, given Soyinka’s long-standing relationship with the US academic and literary community, where he has held several teaching and fellowship positions over the decades.
The development marks a notable turn in the laureate’s international engagements, especially considering his global reputation as one of Africa’s most respected voices in literature and human rights advocacy.
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