Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has declined an invitation from the U.S. Consulate in Nigeria for a visa reinterview scheduled on September 11, describing the invitation as “strange and bizarre.”

Soyinka explained that he initially suspected the letter might be a scam, as he had never received such correspondence from any embassy before. “At first I thought it was advance fee fraud because I had never received that kind of letter from that or any other embassy,” he said, noting the unusual nature of the communication.

The renowned playwright and activist emphasised that the decision was not personal. “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. So the question of going to such an interview is totally out of consideration,” he stated.

Soyinka also expressed concerns about the significance of the interview date, noting the symbolic weight of September 11. “This is a day which I have always considered very critical for the United States. To me, 9/11 should be regarded as a day of national mourning and reflection. They should close down offices on that day. If they don’t, at least I would shut down my relationship with them,” he said.

In addition to the timing, Soyinka hinted at broader political observations, referencing U.S. leadership in a critical tone, while maintaining focus on the personal reasons for declining the invitation.

The Nobel Laureate’s response underscores his preference for principled decision-making, careful consideration of symbolic dates, and prioritising personal and professional commitments over procedural formalities.