Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka has stirred public attention after revealing that his U.S. visa was suddenly withdrawn, a move that now prevents him from entering the country. The writer said the decision came without warning or explanation.

According to Soyinka, the notice came through a letter from the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, dated October 23, 2025. It mentioned “additional information” as the reason, but gave no clue of what that meant.

“I am banned, obviously, from the United States,” he said, wondering why such action was taken when he had done nothing wrong. He also advised those planning events in the U.S. to stop expecting his attendance.

The news spread quickly, especially online, where many Nigerians expressed surprise. Some said the move might be political; others called it unnecessary.

Soyinka, who became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, has often spoken freely on political matters, sometimes to the discomfort of those in power.

He isn’t the only Nigerian to face such restrictions. Over the years, several public figures from the country have also been barred or denied entry into foreign nations for various reasons, from political disputes to criminal allegations.

Here are five prominent Nigerians who have also been banned or restricted from entering foreign countries:

1. Abba Kyari

Once celebrated as one of Nigeria’s top police officers, Abba Kyari’s career took a different shape after U.S. investigators linked him to suspected internet fraudster Ramon “Hushpuppi” Abbas.

Following the allegations, Kyari was suspended and later arrested in Nigeria.

The U.S. government also demanded that he be sent over for trial and placed travel restrictions pending the outcome of his case. His once respected reputation abroad quickly crumbled under the weight of the scandal.

2. Diezani Alison-Madueke

The former Petroleum Minister remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial political figures. Diezani Alison-Madueke has faced multiple corruption and money laundering allegations in the U.K. and the U.S.

Her British residency came under scrutiny, and she has been unable to move freely outside the U.K. while investigations into her alleged misuse of public funds continue.

For years, her case has symbolised how corrupt allegations can shadow public officials even after leaving office.

3. James Ibori

Former Delta State Governor, James Ibori, famously served time in the United Kingdom after being convicted of money laundering.

His conviction automatically restricted his entry into several countries, including the U.S.

Although he returned to Nigeria after completing his sentence, Ibori’s name still appears on various travel watchlists tied to financial crimes. His case remains one of Nigeria’s most talked-about corruption stories.

4. Nnamdi Kanu

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has long had a strained relationship with foreign governments due to his separatist campaign. He has faced multiple arrests, detentions, and travel restrictions.

Several countries have distanced themselves from his movement to avoid diplomatic tension with Nigeria. His ongoing legal battles have further limited his ability to travel freely.

5. Wole Soyinka

Finally, Wole Soyinka’s recent visa withdrawal adds his name to the growing list of Nigerians facing foreign restrictions.

Known globally for his outspokenness, Soyinka said he has done nothing wrong and will continue to speak his mind regardless of any political pressure. (The Sun)