Oluwatosin Enesi
Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has praised Rotimi Amaechi for what he described as a “courageous and defiant stance” during the 2022 APC presidential primaries, where the former minister refused to step down for eventual winner, President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking in Abuja at an event marking Amaechi’s 60th birthday, Soyinka said he was especially impressed by Amaechi’s decision to stay in the race, even as others bowed out under political pressure.
“I admire Rotimi Amaechi’s fighting spirit,” Soyinka said. “I watched the primaries live from Abu Dhabi, and I must say — it gave me some rascally pleasure to see the then-incumbent getting a taste of his own medicine.”
The renowned playwright drew a historical parallel, comparing Amaechi’s resolve to that of Bola Tinubu during the Obasanjo era, when Tinubu resisted attempts to alter the Constitution for a third-term agenda.
“Tinubu himself was once the last man standing. Now, Amaechi returned the favour,” Soyinka added. “When others were stepping aside, he stood firm. That’s what democracy is all about.”
Soyinka’s comments alluded to the behind-the-scenes political dynamics at the time, where several contenders reportedly bowed out in favor of a consensus push for Tinubu’s candidacy.
Despite losing the primary, Amaechi came second, securing 316 votes, while Vice President Yemi Osinbajo finished third with 235 votes. Tinubu clinched the ticket with 1,271 votes.
The event served not just as a birthday celebration, but also a moment of political reflection, and for Soyinka, a chance to salute a rare act of political bravery.
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