Nigerians have criticized Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka for remaining silent on President Tinubu’s controversial pardon after recalling his 2013 condemnation of ex-President Jonathan’s similar action.
Nigerians on social media have revisited Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka’s 2013 criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s state pardon for ex-Bayelsa governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, describing it as “immoral.”
An old report, shared on Monday by journalist Oseni Rufai on X (formerly Twitter), quoted Soyinka as saying Jonathan’s action “tarnished the moral credibility of the presidency.”
However, Soyinka’s current silence on President Bola Tinubu’s controversial pardon — which reportedly included individuals convicted of corruption — has sparked backlash online.
One X user, @Oladosuadewole, wrote: “Prof went mute now that his kinsmen are doing the same.” Another, @nickoche, mocked: “The Nobel Laureate is observing table manners. Wrong doesn’t seem wrong anymore.” Similarly, @odumodugb added: “Prof is observing table manners. Nobody talks while he’s eating.”
Some accused Soyinka of ethnic bias and political loyalty. @ifeeadieze commented: “Soyinka will be blind to Tinubu’s immoral actions. Tinubu is his tribe’s man and benefactor.” Others argued his moral influence has diminished.
The debate reflects growing frustration over what many Nigerians view as double standards among public intellectuals — vocal against certain administrations but silent when allies are in power.