Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has cautioned against attempts to credit Nigeria’s democratic gains to any single political figure, insisting that the country’s democratic journey was the result of collective sacrifices made by numerous individuals across generations.
Soyinka spoke during the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) Awards ceremony and the presentation of a book documenting the organisation’s history, authored by former NADECO General Secretary, Ayo Opadokun.
According to Soyinka, no individual could solely claim responsibility for the achievements recorded during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, noting that many contributors played vital roles that history may never completely capture.
“I am very sure that no one here can single out any particular political figure as solely responsible for the achievements recorded. Many people contributed, often suddenly and unexpectedly, in ways history may never fully capture,” he said.
The Nobel laureate described Opadokun’s book as a significant contribution to preserving the true history of the democratic struggle, adding that it helps to correct distorted narratives surrounding key actors in the movement.
He said the publication would serve not only as a historical document but also as a guide for governance by reminding political leaders of the ideals and sacrifices that shaped Nigeria’s democracy.
“It reflects participation, documentation, and determination. It also challenges those who are expected to act on issues to put the country on the right path through the desired results,” Soyinka stated.
The literary icon also commended the book for acknowledging several activists who made enormous contributions to the struggle but later faded from public attention without recognition for their roles.
Reflecting on the difficult years of resistance against military rule, Soyinka recalled the financial and emotional challenges faced by NADECO members while operating in exile, especially in Paris, France.
“We were permanently short of resources in France, and we had to manage whatever little assistance we could get. The support and encouragement from friends and associates were very crucial in keeping us going,” he said.
Despite the hardship, Soyinka said members of the movement remained steadfast because of their belief that democracy and truth would ultimately prevail.
“We prayed constantly that our country would not collapse and that better days would eventually come,” he added.
While welcoming renewed efforts to document the history of NADECO and the pro-democracy movement, Soyinka urged historians, writers, and political actors to handle such narratives with responsibility and caution because of their implications for both history and living individuals.
He also called on President Bola Tinubu to preserve and strengthen the democratic institutions established through years of struggle and sacrifice.
“The request I want to make is that the President should continue to build on the foundations already laid by those who fought for democracy and national stability. One of the greatest responsibilities before this nation today is to preserve the structures that sustain peace, justice, and democratic governance,” Soyinka said.
