President Bola Tinubu celebrates Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti on his 100th birthday, praising his integrity, democratic struggles, and lifelong service to Nigeria
Tinubu Celebrates Pa Fasoranti at 100, Praises Integrity and Democratic Legacy
President Bola Tinubu has showered praises on elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as the respected Yoruba leader marked his 100th birthday anniversary.
In a heartfelt tribute released on Sunday ahead of Fasoranti’s centenary celebration on May 11, Tinubu described the nonagenarian as a symbol of integrity, courage, discipline, and unwavering service to Nigeria.
“My joy knows no bounds as we witness Pa Reuben Fasoranti, our father, elder statesman, administrator, pro-democracy activist, prominent politician, and foremost Afenifere leader, attain the milestone age of 100,” Tinubu said.
The president praised Fasoranti’s remarkable contributions to education, politics, and Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that his legacy continues to inspire generations.
“Baba Fasoranti deserves all the encomiums that will come his way on this occasion for his uncommon life of service and immense contributions to this country,” Tinubu stated.
He described the Afenifere chieftain as a man known for “his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes,” adding that Fasoranti’s life represents “integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership.”
Tinubu highlighted the elder statesman’s educational achievements at the University of Ibadan, the University of Hull in the United Kingdom, and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
According to the president, Fasoranti’s passion for education shaped his early career as a teacher and administrator and inspired the establishment of schools including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy.
The president also reflected on Fasoranti’s enduring political influence, describing him as one of the last surviving disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and a committed defender of progressive ideals.
“A disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and one of the last surviving Awoists, Pa Fasoranti belonged to the defunct Action Group in the First Republic and to the Unity Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic,” Tinubu noted.
Tinubu further commended Fasoranti’s service as commissioner for finance in old Ondo State under former Governor Adekunle Ajasin, praising his record of transparency and fiscal discipline.
“It is on record that his integrity and financial prudence helped manage the state’s finances,” he said.
The president equally acknowledged Fasoranti’s role during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, describing him as one of the fearless voices that resisted military dictatorship.
“Pa Fasoranti’s voice became one of the rallying voices against military dictatorship, demanding the return of democracy to the land,” Tinubu added.
Despite enduring personal tragedies, including the death of his wife and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, in 2019, Tinubu said Fasoranti has remained resilient and committed to national unity.
Recalling their personal relationship, Tinubu revealed that Fasoranti prayed for his presidential victory during a visit to Akure before the 2023 election.
“At the start of my campaign for the presidency, I visited Pa Fasoranti in Akure. Baba prayed for my electoral victory, saying he would live to witness my ascension to the presidency. God answered his prayer through my victory,” Tinubu disclosed.
“I thank Baba for his prayers, his belief in my vision, and his continued support for our Renewed Hope Administration,” he added.
Tinubu concluded by praying for more years for the elder statesman, whom he described as “the only recognised leader of Afenifere” and one of Nigeria’s enduring moral voices.
“Above all, I thank Pa Fasoranti for his service to Nigeria,” the president said.
