President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as the Afenifere leader marks his 100th birthday on May 11, describing him as a symbol of integrity, discipline, and lifelong service to Nigeria.
Tinubu said the centenary milestone of Fasoranti, a prominent politician, administrator, pro-democracy advocate, and respected Yoruba leader, is a moment for national reflection on his decades of contribution to public life and nation-building.
He noted that Fasoranti’s life reflects a rare combination of principled living, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to justice and good governance, adding that his legacy stands as a moral compass for leadership in Nigeria.
The President highlighted Fasoranti’s strong educational foundation, including his degree in English and Geography from University College Ibadan (now University of Ibadan), 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, Sydney, Australia.
Tinubu further recalled Fasoranti’s early career in education, where he served as a teacher at Ondo Boys’ High School and other schools within the Ondo-Akure axis, as well as his establishment of several educational institutions, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School in Akure, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy, Igoba, founded in memory of his late wife.
According to the President, Fasoranti’s influence extended far beyond education into politics and activism, where he emerged as a key disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and remained one of the last surviving Awoists.
He traced Fasoranti’s political journey through the Action Group in the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic, noting his service as Commissioner for Finance in the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1983, where he was widely acknowledged for financial discipline and integrity.
Tinubu also praised Fasoranti’s role during military rule, when he stood firmly in the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria and became a leading voice in Afenifere, advocating Yoruba unity, progress, and development.
He noted that following internal divisions in Afenifere after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya, Fasoranti emerged as the authentic and widely respected leader of the group, a position he continues to hold.
The President acknowledged the challenges Fasoranti has faced over the years, including an assassination attempt during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha, as well as personal tragedies such as the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, in 2019, saying despite these, he has remained resilient.
While praying for continued good health and long life for the elder statesman, Tinubu expressed gratitude for Fasoranti’s support and prayers, especially during his presidential ambition.
He recalled visiting Fasoranti in Akure at the beginning of his campaign, where the elder statesman prayed for his success and expressed hope to witness his emergence as President, a prayer Tinubu said was fulfilled.
The President reaffirmed his appreciation for Fasoranti’s belief in his vision and his continued support for the Renewed Hope administration, describing him as a national asset whose service to Nigeria will remain enduring.