President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as he marks his 99th birthday.
In a tribute released on Saturday and signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President paid glowing homage to the revered Yoruba leader, describing his life as one marked by “service, resilience, and unwavering principles.”
Okay.ng reports that the statement, titled ‘President Bola Tinubu’s Tribute to Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti at 99’, recounted the statesman’s lifelong dedication to education, democracy, and the Yoruba ethos of integrity and progress.
“Today, I join the family, friends, and political associates of our beloved father, leader, and patriarch, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as we commemorate his extraordinary 99 years on earth,” Tinubu stated.
He noted that even in old age, Fasoranti’s mind remains “sharp and active,” crediting this to divine grace. Tinubu hailed Fasoranti’s early years as an educationist, citing the founding of Omolere Nursery School and Akure High School as lasting legacies.
Reflecting on the elder’s political journey, Tinubu highlighted Fasoranti’s involvement in Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group and his role in the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), describing him as one of Awolowo’s closest allies.
He also acknowledged Fasoranti’s tenure as Ondo State Commissioner for Finance (1979–1983) under Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin, praising his “prudent financial management” that helped deliver on key UPN promises like free education, free healthcare, and rural development.
The President further lauded Fasoranti’s courage during Nigeria’s years of military rule, specifically referencing his role in Afenifere and NADECO during the Sani Abacha dictatorship.
“In the darkest days of the Sani Abacha dictatorship, Baba Fasoranti and his colleagues stood resolutely for democracy, inspiring younger generations, including myself,” Tinubu noted.
Acknowledging the personal loss Fasoranti has endured in recent years, the President commended him for remaining a “beacon of Christian faith and leadership.”
Tinubu also reflected on his visit to Fasoranti’s Akure home during the 2023 presidential campaign.
“I am deeply grateful for his blessings, support, and belief in my vision for our country,” he stated. “It is gratifying to know that he is here to witness our efforts in revitalizing Nigeria’s economy and ensuring its sustainable development.”
President Tinubu concluded his tribute by calling Fasoranti’s life an example worthy of emulation and prayed for continued strength and grace for the Afenifere leader.
“As we celebrate Baba Fasoranti at 99, may his life of service continue to motivate us all to strive for the public good with courage and conviction,” he said. “Happy birthday to our beloved father and leader, and may our communities always be blessed with wise elders like Baba Fasoranti.”
