Key points
- Soyinka warns heavy protection drains national security focus and funds. He says leaders must avoid misplaced priorities and public harm.
- He describes seeing a near battalion around the president’s son. He said he asked security chiefs for clear answers afterwards.
- He jokes that the son’s guards could have calmed unrest abroad. He urges limits on private power within the state security system.
Professor Wole Soyinka criticised heavy protection around President Tinubu’s son today.
He told a Lagos awards event his concerns about national priorities. He said heavy guards drain public focus and national resources.
Soyinka said he saw a near battalion at Ikoyi.
He pointed to recent coverage like Seyi Tinubu at 40. This alarmed him and led him to ask security chiefs.
He said he called the national security adviser directly. He wanted clear answers about the heavy detail in Ikoyi. The adviser reportedly said such protection is routine for the son.
What Soyinka saw
He described about fifteen armed men around the hotel. He pointedly compared the detail to a small battalion on duty. He said they seemed ready for serious action nearby.
He said the detail filled much of the hotel ground. He added security moved in tight groups and checkpoints were visible. Local guests reported delays and limited access to the venue.
Soyinka linked heavy private protection to wider national risks. He warned that such focus can weaken public safety across Nigeria. He urged leaders to adopt clear rules for private protection.
Critics point to Seyi Tinubu’s public projects and charity work. See coverage like Seyi Tinubu donates N20m for context. But many ask whether private security should get public forces.
Why this matters
Soyinka framed the matter as a question of public duty. He said children must not act like heads of state. He called for limits on private power and clearer oversight.
Civic groups may push for clearer rules and answers. Lawmakers could demand briefings from security chiefs and advisers. Clear info will help restore public trust in the system.
The presidency has not issued a public reply yet.
A spokesman may explain why such heavy detail was used. For now Soyinka’s critique adds to an unfolding security debate.
