US Revokes Soyinka’s Visa, Bans His Entry
The United States government, under the leadership of President Donald Trump has revoked Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka’s visa, effectively banning him from entering the United States.
The decision was communicated to Soyinka through an official letter dated October 23, 2025, citing “additional information became available” as the reason, but no specific details were provided.
Soyinka disclosed this development on Tuesday at Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos Island, where he addressed journalists on the issue.
“It is necessary for me to hold this conference so that people in the United States who are expecting me for this event or that event do not waste their time,” he stated.
The Professor however expressed surprise and confusion over the revocation, stating he has no past criminal record or history of misconduct that would justify such action. He speculated that his vocal criticism of former US President Donald Trump might be connected to the decision.
“I have no visa; I am banned, obviously, from the United States. And if you want to see me, you know where to find me,” Soyinka said.
“I’m still looking into my past history. I don’t have any past criminal record or even a felony or misdemeanour to qualify for the revocation.”
Soyinka added that he had begun reflecting on whether any of his past actions might have triggered the decision.
“I’ve started looking back; have I ever misbehaved toward the United States of America? Do I have a history? Have I been convicted? Have I gone against the law anywhere?” he asked.
Notably, the writer tore up his US green card in 2016 after Trump’s election, denouncing his policies.
The revocation has sparked reactions, with many viewing it as a concerning move given Soyinka’s stature in the literary world and his long-standing relationship with the US academic community. Soyinka has since assured that he will continue to welcome Americans to his home, despite the visa revocation.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
