Nigerian literary icon Professor Wole Soyinka has issued a 30-day ultimatum to those disputing his academic records, challenging them to provide proof. He called on his critics to submit their evidence to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Soyinka, a Nobel Laureate, is also considering legal action against those making allegations against him.
He attended Leeds University, UK, from 1954 to 1957 and received an honours degree in English Literature. A previous report had alleged that Soyinka did not graduate with a first-class degree from Leeds University, sparking controversy on social media.
In a statement titled "A moral call to amoral conscripts," Soyinka declared that if the allegations against him were proven true, he would voluntarily relinquish any titles and honours he had received in his career. He urged the purveyors of the allegations to submit evidence to investigative agencies within 30 days. If the allegations remain unproven, Soyinka called for those responsible to undertake a symbolic ritual purgation by jumping off a bridge into the River Niger, chained together in unity.
This story highlights Soyinka's response to allegations about his academic background and his willingness to face any investigations into the matter.
