Soyinka questions Trump’s mental state over violent remarks about Nigeria

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has criticised U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent comments threatening violent intervention in Nigeria, asking whether such statements reflect a “correct” state of mind.

Soyinka spoke to journalists in Benue State during his visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia.

Responding to Trump’s comments about coming into Nigeria “with violence,” Soyinka described the remarks as careless and disrespectful to victims of insecurity.

Quoting Trump’s words exactly as he referenced them, Soyinka said: “I say I’m coming to help you, whether you like it or not. And I’m coming with violence, from outside. For almost non-existent analyses of the complexities of where the problem is.”

Soyinka continued by repeating Trump’s description of his intended approach: “And you see, I’m coming to help you, and I’m coming with guns ablazing. And when we come in, it’s going to be fast, vicious, and sweet.”

He then questioned the thinking behind such a statement: “Now, is that a language of somebody whose head is correct? So, what else do you want me to say?”

The literary icon stressed that while government bore clear responsibility to protect citizens, external actors must show respect for the realities on the ground.

In his words: “Any government has an obligation to protect, to ensure the welfare of his or her citizens. There’s no question about it, but at least have some respect for victims and those who are trying to find solutions for the unacceptable situation.”

Soyinka’s remarks underscore growing frustration among Nigerian leaders and intellectuals over inflammatory external commentary on the country’s security challenges.