President Bola Tinubu has celebrated elder statesman and leader of the Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a symbol of integrity, sacrifice and selfless national service.
In a statement he personally issued to commemorate Fasoranti’s centenary on May 11, the President praised the nonagenarian for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s political development, democratic struggle and educational advancement.
Tinubu said the attainment of 100 years by the respected Yoruba leader was not only a personal milestone but also a moment of celebration for the entire nation.
“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 on May 11,” the President stated.
The President described Fasoranti as a man whose life has been shaped by discipline, honesty and unwavering commitment to public service, noting that his contributions to national development have earned him admiration across the country.
“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 said.
According to the President, the Afenifere leader represents the ideals of true leadership and moral uprightness.
“His life is a metaphor for integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership,” he added.
Tinubu also highlighted Fasoranti’s passion for education, noting that the elder statesman understood from an early stage in life the transformative role education plays in societal development.
The President further reflected on Fasoranti’s political journey, describing him as one of the remaining disciples of late nationalist leader Obafemi Awolowo and a committed advocate of progressive politics in the South-West.
He recalled that Fasoranti played active roles in the defunct Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria, where he served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983.
Tinubu said Fasoranti’s influence became more visible during Nigeria’s military era when he emerged as one of the leading voices advocating for democracy and defending Yoruba interests through Afenifere.
“Pa Fasoranti’s voice became one of the rallying voices against military dictatorship, demanding the return of democracy to the land,” the President said.
The President also acknowledged the difficult moments Fasoranti endured throughout his life, including surviving an assassination attempt during the regime of former military ruler Sani Abacha.
He further referenced the painful loss of Fasoranti’s wife and his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, who was killed by kidnappers in 2019.
Despite the tragedies and political persecution he experienced, Tinubu said the elder statesman remained resilient and committed to national unity and democratic values.
“Pa Fasoranti weathered the storms, and he is soldiering on,” he noted.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the elder statesman, the President expressed appreciation for Fasoranti’s prayers and support during his presidential ambition.
Tinubu recalled visiting the Afenifere leader in Akure at the beginning of his campaign, where he received prayers and encouragement ahead of the 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 and eventual ascendancy to the top office,” the President stated.
The tribute has continued to attract reactions from political leaders and supporters across the country, many of whom described Fasoranti as one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen and advocates of democratic governance.
