By Erewunmi Peace

Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has turned down an invitation from the United States Consulate in Nigeria to attend a visa re-interview, citing principle, timing, and skepticism about the process.

Soyinka revealed that he was surprised to receive the letter from the Consulate, initially mistaking it for a scam. Upon confirming that it was genuine, he still chose not to honour the request.

“I have more important things to do than chase visas for places I don’t want to go to and where I am not wanted,” he said.

The re-interview was scheduled for September 11, 2025, a date Soyinka described as “very critical for the United States.” He admitted to being “a bit superstitious” about the significance of the day, stressing that he found the timing inappropriate.

In his remarks, Soyinka also criticised the current U.S. administration, describing it as led by “a white Idi Amin,” and suggested that the invitation may carry political undertones he is unwilling to entertain.

The development comes amid new U.S. visa policies requiring more applicants to undergo interviews in their country of residence. While the Consulate has not issued an official response to Soyinka’s decision, his stance has sparked public debate about how visa re-interviews are handled and their impact on high-profile applicants.

Soyinka’s refusal highlights broader concerns about respect, fairness, and transparency in international diplomatic procedures.