ABUJA, Nigeria — The U.S. Consulate in Lagos has confirmed the revocation of Prof. Wole Soyinka’s B1/B2 visa, emphasizing that the issuance of visas to foreign nationals is discretionary and subject to change at any time. The move has sparked debate across diplomatic and cultural circles in Nigeria.
“Visas are a privilege, not a right,” said Julia McKay, Public Diplomacy Officer at the U.S. Consulate. Every country, including the United States, can determine who enters its borders. Visas may be revoked at any time, at the discretion of the U.S. government, whenever circumstances warrant.
The statement followed Soyinka’s public revelation during a media parley in Lagos that his visa had been permanently revoked. He read aloud the official notification from the U.S. Consulate, dated October 23, and suggested the action may be politically motivated, referencing his past criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump.
In 2016, Soyinka famously tore up his U.S. Green Card in protest of Trump’s election victory. “I’m not surprised,” he said at the recent event. This feels like a continuation of that saga. I’ve always spoken my mind, and sometimes that comes at a cost.
The U.S. government declined to comment on the specifics of Soyinka’s case, citing confidentiality laws surrounding visa records. However, the broader clarification has reignited discussions about diplomatic reciprocity, freedom of expression, and the treatment of prominent international figures.
Reactions in Nigeria have been mixed. Some view the revocation as an affront to a globally respected intellectual, while others argue that visa decisions are sovereign matters and not subject to public sentiment.
“This is a Nobel laureate we’re talking about,” said Dr. Ayo Olatunji, a political analyst in Lagos. If the U.S. can revoke his visa without explanation, it sends a message about how dissent is treated—even across borders.
Others defended the U.S. stance. “No one is above immigration law,” said U.S.-based Nigerian lawyer Ifeoma Nwosu. “Even high-profile individuals must comply with the terms of their visa. The U.S. has every right to act as it sees fit.
As the controversy unfolds, Soyinka remains defiant. “I will continue to speak truth to power,” he said. “Whether I’m allowed into a country or not will never silence me.
