President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to foremost Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing him as a symbol of integrity, honesty and selfless service as the elder statesman marked his 100th birthday on Sunday.
In a statement commemorating Fasoranti’s centenary celebration on May 11, the President praised the veteran nationalist for his lifelong dedication to education, democratic governance and national development.
Tinubu said the nonagenarian had lived an exemplary life defined by discipline, principled leadership and unwavering commitment to justice and democratic ideals.
“His life is a metaphor for integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership,” the President stated.
He highlighted Fasoranti’s academic journey, noting that the Afenifere leader studied English and Geography at the University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan. Fasoranti later obtained a postgraduate diploma in Education from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom and a Master’s degree in Education Administration and School Management from Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
The President also acknowledged Fasoranti’s contributions to the education sector through his teaching career at Ondo Boys’ High School and other institutions in Ondo State. He further credited the elder statesman with establishing schools including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy in Akure.
Tinubu noted that Fasoranti’s influence extended beyond education into politics and activism, describing him as one of the last surviving loyalists of late nationalist Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
According to him, Fasoranti was an active member of the defunct Action Group during the First Republic and later joined the Unity Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic.
The President recalled Fasoranti’s service as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin, commending his prudent management of the state’s finances.
Tinubu further praised the elder statesman’s role during the struggle against military rule, saying he became one of the prominent voices advocating the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
“Pa Fasoranti’s voice became one of the rallying voices against military dictatorship, demanding the return of democracy to the land,” Tinubu said.
He added that Fasoranti later emerged as the widely recognised leader of Afenifere following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya and the leadership crisis within the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation.
“To this date, Baba remains the only recognised leader of Afenifere,” he declared.
Reflecting on Fasoranti’s personal challenges, Tinubu referenced the assassination attempt on the elder statesman during the regime of late General Sani Abacha, the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by suspected kidnappers in 2019.
Despite the tragedies, the President said Fasoranti remained steadfast in his commitment to national service and the unity of the Yoruba people.
Tinubu also expressed appreciation for the elder statesman’s support and prayers during his presidential campaign.
He recalled visiting Fasoranti in Akure at the start of his campaign, where the Afenifere leader prayed for his electoral success and expressed confidence that he would become President.
“God answered his prayer through my victory and eventual ascendancy to the top office,” Tinubu said.
The President thanked Fasoranti for believing in his vision and supporting the Renewed Hope administration, while praying for continued good health and long life for the elder statesman.
“I thank Baba for his prayers, his belief in my vision, and his continued support for our Renewed Hope Administration. Above all, I thank Pa Fasoranti for his service to Nigeria,” he added.