President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday. In a personally signed tribute issued on Sunday, Tinubu described Fasoranti as a symbol of integrity, principled leadership, and unwavering commitment to democracy and national development.
A Life of Service and Sacrifice
The President said his “joy knows no bounds” as the nation witnesses the attainment of this landmark age by the elder statesman, pro-democracy activist, and foremost Yoruba leader. According to Tinubu, Fasoranti’s life embodies discipline, honesty, dedicated service, and moral leadership. “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 stated.
Educational Achievements
Tinubu praised Fasoranti’s lifelong commitment to education, recalling his academic accomplishments at the University College, Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan), the University of Hull in the United Kingdom, and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia. He also highlighted Fasoranti’s enduring footprints in the education sector through his years as a teacher and founder of notable schools in Ondo State, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy, Igoba, Akure.
Political and Democratic Activism
The President noted that Fasoranti’s greatest impact came through politics, public service, and democratic activism. Describing him as one of the last surviving disciples of late nationalist Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Tinubu said the Afenifere leader remained steadfast in promoting the Yoruba ethos of Omoluabi, anchored on discipline, integrity, and good conduct. He recalled Fasoranti’s political involvement in the defunct Action Group during the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), where he served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin. According to the President, Fasoranti’s integrity and prudence played a critical role in the management of the state’s finances during that period.
Struggle Against Military Dictatorship
Tinubu further praised Fasoranti’s role in the struggle against military dictatorship, noting that his voice became one of the strongest rallying points for democracy and Yoruba unity during years of military rule. “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 after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya, Fasoranti emerged as the recognized and respected leader of Afenifere, maintaining the unity and relevance of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization.
Resilience Amid Personal Tragedies
The President also recalled the assassination attempt on Fasoranti during the regime of late General Sani Abacha, saying the elder statesman emerged from the ordeal stronger and even more resolute in resisting oppression and authoritarianism. Tinubu acknowledged the personal tragedies Fasoranti endured over the years, including the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in July 2019. Despite these painful losses, the President said the elder statesman remained resilient and steadfast.
