Nigerian academic and public affairs commentator, Prof. Sandra Duru, has faulted Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka over the revocation of his United States visa, saying the action was a consequence of his past conduct toward the country.
Prof. Duru, who is also known as Prof. Mgbeke, said Soyinka had shown “contempt” for the United States when he publicly tore his American Green Card in protest several years ago, arguing that the U.S. authorities were justified in their response.
“The United States of America was right—fully right—to revoke Professor Wole Soyinka’s visa if indeed he once tore his American Green Card. That act was not a symbol of protest; it was a public declaration of contempt,” she said.
According to her, a visa represents a nation’s trust and respect, which should not be taken for granted.
“You cannot tear up a nation’s symbol of trust and privilege and then expect to walk back into that same nation with entitlement. The American visa is not a souvenir—it is a covenant of respect between the bearer and the State.”
Prof. Duru noted that when Soyinka destroyed his Green Card in 2016 to protest America’s political direction, his action transcended a mere disagreement with an administration.
“He was not just rejecting an administration; he was rejecting the sovereignty of the United States itself. Every lawful government acts to defend its dignity, its borders, and its symbols of authority.
“To revoke his visa is not pettiness—it is principle. It is America saying: you cannot mock our values and still demand our hospitality.”
She added that the decision serves as a reminder that freedom of speech does not equate to freedom from consequence.
“No Nobel Prize or global recognition grants anyone the right to insult a nation and still expect red-carpet treatment from it. America, like any great nation, must guard its honor. The revocation of Professor Soyinka’s visa is not vengeance—it is a reaffirmation that respect is mutual and that privileges in the United States are earned, not inherited, and certainly not abused.”
Prof. Duru urged Nigeria to emulate the U.S. in defending its national integrity.
“Nigeria must also learn to guard its reputation and dignity with firmness and pride. A nation that demands respect must first respect itself. It is time for Nigeria to stand tall, speak boldly, and act decisively, just as the United States does when its honor is challenged.”
She concluded with a pointed remark:“If you tear a bridge, you cannot demand passage across it.”
