“I Admire Amaechi for Not Stepping Down for Tinubu During APC Primary”,Prof. Wole Soyinka Speaks Out

Nobel Laureate and renowned playwright, Professor Wole Soyinka, has once again made headlines,this time for praising former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, for the bold stance he took during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary. In a recent statement, Soyinka revealed that he admires Amaechi for refusing to step down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who eventually emerged as the party’s flagbearer and later, the President of Nigeria.

Soyinka Commends Amaechi’s Political Courage

According to Soyinka, Amaechi showed rare political bravery by standing his ground during the heated APC primaries. While several other aspirants withdrew and endorsed Tinubu at the last minute, Amaechi went ahead to contest despite the political pressure. For Soyinka, this act was not just admirable,it was a reflection of integrity, principle, and political maturity.

A Rare Voice in Nigerian Politics

Soyinka emphasized that in a political climate where loyalty often means blind obedience, it was refreshing to see someone like Amaechi stick to his convictions. He acknowledged that politics requires alliances, but he stressed the importance of standing firm in the face of internal party pressures. In his view, Nigeria needs more politicians who can act with conscience rather than convenience.

Amaechi’s Presidential Ambition

Rotimi Amaechi, a former Governor of Rivers State and one-time Speaker of the State House of Assembly, was one of the leading aspirants in the APC’s presidential primaries. Despite being a strong figure within the party and having held major positions at the national level, he lost the ticket to Tinubu. Still, he was commended by many for conducting himself with dignity and for refusing to abandon his ambition under pressure.

Soyinka’s Influence and Political Opinions

Professor Wole Soyinka is known for being outspoken, especially when it comes to national issues and the conduct of public office holders. Over the years, he has used his platform to call out corruption, dictatorship, and bad governance. His admiration for Amaechi adds a unique moral perspective to the political discussion, especially as it comes from someone who is not a card-carrying member of any political party.

Reactions from Nigerians

Soyinka’s comment has sparked a wave of reactions across social media and political circles. Some Nigerians agreed with his assessment, applauding Amaechi for his courage. Others felt the praise was too generous, arguing that internal party politics is more complex than it appears. Nonetheless, the comment has reignited conversations about integrity in Nigerian politics.

A Lesson in Standing Firm

For many observers, Soyinka’s words are a reminder that politics should be about more than just winning elections. It should be about principles, ideas, and vision. Amaechi’s decision to remain in the race, despite the odds, is now being seen by some as a case study in political integrity,one that might inspire other leaders in the future.

Written By Fortune Davidson