President Bola Tinubu has congratulated elder statesman and leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a man of integrity, service and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development.
In a statement personally signed on Sunday, President Tinubu expressed delight over Fasoranti’s centenary celebration, saying the Yoruba leader deserved every honour accorded to him for his contributions to the nation.
“My joy knows no bounds as we witness Pa Reuben Fasoranti attain the milestone age of 100 on May 11,” Tinubu stated.
“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.”
The President described Fasoranti’s life as a symbol of honesty, discipline, principled leadership and dedication to noble causes.
According to Tinubu, the elder statesman distinguished himself through his commitment to education, politics, democracy and Yoruba unity.
He highlighted Fasoranti’s educational background, noting that he studied English and Geography at the then University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, before obtaining a postgraduate diploma in Education from the University of Hull and a Master’s degree in Education Administration and School Management from Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
Tinubu also commended Fasoranti’s contributions to the education sector through his teaching career and establishment of schools in Ondo State, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy in Akure.
Reflecting on his political career, the President described Fasoranti as a loyal disciple of late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo and one of the last surviving Awoists.
He noted that Fasoranti was a member of the defunct Action Group during the First Republic and later served in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.
Tinubu further recalled Fasoranti’s tenure as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State under former Governor Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1983, praising his integrity and prudent management of public funds.
The President also acknowledged Fasoranti’s role during the military era, describing him as one of the prominent voices that resisted military dictatorship and advocated for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti later emerged as the recognised leader of Afenifere following internal divisions within the group after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.
Tinubu also reflected on personal tragedies experienced by the elder statesman, including the assassination attempt during the military regime of late General Sani Abacha and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in 2019.
The President expressed gratitude to Fasoranti for his support and prayers throughout his political journey, particularly ahead of the 2023 presidential election.
Tinubu disclosed that he visited the elder statesman in Akure at the beginning of his presidential campaign, where Fasoranti prayed for his victory and assured him he would live to witness his emergence as President.
“God answered his prayer through my victory and eventual ascendancy to the top office,” Tinubu stated.
The President concluded by praying for continued strength and long life for the Afenifere leader while thanking him for his enduring service to Nigeria.
