Obidients, ‘Barbarians’, Call Out Wole Soyinka, ‘You Did Worse’

The recent comment by Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, labeling a section of social media users in Nigeria as Barbarians who he claimed have devalued the intellectual fulcrum of social media has caused outrage among his targets.

The octogenarian Nobel laureate made the remarks during the 48th President’s party and his induction as an honorary member of Abeokuta Club in Ogun State on Saturday, January 20th.

In his address to the gathering, Soyinka emphasized the unfortunate transformation of social media into what he termed a “monstrosity” in Nigeria, where intellectual discourse has been replaced by a low common denominator. Soyinka urged the intellectual and creative community to step forward and rescue the country from the adverse influence of social media barbarians.

He, however, did not mention any group in particular, but supporters of Peter Obi who had in the past been victims of his criticism saw it as another shot and are now responding with venom against Soyinka.

One Labour Party supporter expressed bewilderment, stating, “I don’t know what Obidients did to this man, first he labeled us fascists, now barbarians…why is he so pained?” The term “Obidients” is used to describe supporters of the Labour Party, with Peter Obi being their Presidential candidate in the last Nigerian Presidential election.

GWG.ng reports that the critics of Soyinka have also been quick to recall his seemingly denigrating aspersions against former First Lady, Patience Jonathan and his radical positions as a younger man who was alleged to have held a toy gun at a broadcaster.

See post below ;

While Soyinka’s critiques have been focused on broader issues, including the decline of social media and the need for intellectual resurgence, this particular comment has sparked speculation about the possible underlying reasons for Soyinka’s apparent discontent towards the “Obidients.”

As discussions unfold, some wonder if there is a history or specific incident that led to Soyinka’s strong characterization of the Labour Party supporters. Others posit that it might be a broader commentary on the current state of Nigerian politics. The comment, “Why is he so pained?” encapsulates the sentiment of confusion and curiosity among Labour Party supporters.

GWG.ng gathered some of the reactions:

Soyinka’s statements have initiated a deeper examination of the relationship between public figures and political entities, prompting individuals to seek understanding behind the motivations for such pointed remarks. As speculations circulate, the story unfolds, inviting a closer look at the intricacies of political discourse and the dynamics between intellectuals and political movements in Nigeria.
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG