Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has reiterated his stance that certain supporters of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, known as ‘Obidients,’ exhibit fascist tendencies. During a question-and-answer session at the launch of his book titled “The Putin Files: Excursions Around The Ideology Of Pain,” the latest installment in the Interventions series, Soyinka expressed his concern about viewing only governments and government agencies as potential fascists.
Soyinka, responding to a question from poet and lawyer Ogaga Ifowodo, explained that the 2020 #EndSARS protest was a prime example of a movement driven by pure truth, which he wholeheartedly supported. He recalled addressing some protesters before leaving Lagos for Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, during the protest, despite pleas for him to stay.
Drawing a comparison between the #EndSARS protest and the actions of the Obidients, Soyinka asserted that the latter’s mobilization of youth was based on defending an untruth. He recalled the unfortunate incident when former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari falsely claimed to have been cheated out of an election, leading to the killing of innocent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. Soyinka emphasized that some self-proclaimed radical Obidients were merely acting out a premeditated script that aimed to tilt the country towards an interim government, even before the February 25 presidential election.
Anticipating backlash from the Obidients, Soyinka acknowledged that he expected online attacks and disparaging remarks. Undeterred, he stated his readiness to face them, challenging their knowledge and calling them “mumu” (foolish) for deviating from their intended course.
Soyinka further noted that a record discharge of toxic sludge seemed to be polluting the streets and sewers of the Republic of Liars, alluding to a climate of fear being generated. In response to the disparaging comments directed at him by the Obidients, Soyinka issued a statement titled “Fascism on Course,” highlighting his concern about the seeds of incipient fascism in the political arena having matured.
The exchanges between Soyinka and the Obidients highlight a growing divide and political tension in Nigeria, with accusations of manipulation, mobilization, and ideological clashes. As the political landscape evolves, the nation grapples with the challenge of fostering healthy and constructive discourse while safeguarding democratic values.
