Soyinka criticizes ‘excessive’ security for Seyi Tinubu, urges prioritization of national security
Nobel laureate and elder statesman, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has expressed strong criticism over what he described as the “excessive, unnecessary, and provocative” security escort assigned to Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Soyinka, speaking on the state of governance and national priorities, warned that the increasingly visible display of privilege by political families undermines public trust and deepens resentment among citizens who continue to battle daily threats to safety and livelihood.
According to him, the deployment of heavily armed personnel to protect individuals with political ties—at a time when many communities lack adequate policing—signals a troubling misplacement of priorities. “Security resources should be directed toward protecting Nigerians who are most at risk, not concentrated around individuals simply because of their connections,” he said.
The renowned playwright noted that Nigeria currently faces a severe security crisis, ranging from banditry and kidnapping to communal clashes. He stressed that diverting scarce security assets to serve private interests reflects insensitivity to the plight of ordinary citizens.
Soyinka urged the Federal Government to urgently review security protocols and ensure that the welfare and protection of the general population remain at the center of national security strategy. He added that leadership must demonstrate integrity by reducing unnecessary privileges and showing solidarity with the people.
“The nation cannot afford to continue on a path where leadership appears disconnected from the realities faced by the masses,” he cautioned. “Security should not be turned into a spectacle of privilege.”
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