The renowned playwright and intellectual made the declaration during a discussion on religion and personal belief systems, reaffirming his long-standing position on spirituality. 

According to Soyinka, his worldview is shaped by personal philosophy and cultural consciousness rather than alignment with organized religious doctrines.

Over the years, Soyinka has consistently maintained a critical stance toward religious dogma, extremism, and institutionalized belief systems. He has often advocated for intellectual independence, tolerance, and the right of individuals to define their own spiritual paths without coercion.

His latest remarks have triggered a wave of mixed reactions in Nigeria, a country where religion plays a central role in public and private life. While some Nigerians have defended his right to freedom of expression and personal belief, others have voiced concern, describing the statement as controversial within the nation’s deeply religious context.

The development has once again brought to the forefront ongoing conversations about faith, identity, secularism, and the boundaries of free speech in a pluralistic society.

Observers note that Soyinka’s comments may further intensify discourse around religious tolerance and the balance between personal convictions and societal sensitivities in modern Nigeria.