- At 100, Pa Fasoranti Still Stands Tall as Voice of Yoruba Unity – Tinubu
- The President described the nonagenarian as a disciplined leader, pro-democracy activist, administrator and prominent politician
- He also recalled the assassination attempt on Pa Fasoranti during the regime of late military ruler Sani Abacha
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as he marks his 100th birthday on May 11, describing him as a symbol of integrity, courage and selfless service to Nigeria.
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a statement released on Saturday, Tinubu said his “joy knows no bounds” witnessing the elder statesman attain the milestone age, noting that Pa Fasoranti deserves every honour and recognition for his immense contributions to the country.
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The President described the nonagenarian as a disciplined leader, pro-democracy activist, administrator and prominent politician whose life has remained a reflection of honesty, principled leadership and dedication to national development.
According to Tinubu, Pa Fasoranti distinguished himself early in life through his commitment to education, obtaining academic qualifications from the University of Ibadan, the University of Hull and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
He noted that the Afenifere leader made significant contributions to the education sector through his teaching career and the establishment of schools, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy, founded in memory of his late wife.
Tinubu also highlighted Pa Fasoranti’s political journey as one of the last surviving disciples of late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo.
He recalled that the elder statesman was a member of the defunct Action Group in the First Republic and later served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State during the administration of late Governor Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1983.
The President said Pa Fasoranti later became one of the strongest voices against military dictatorship, playing a leading role in the struggle for the return of democracy and the promotion of Yoruba unity through Afenifere.
Tinubu described him as the “authentic leader” of Afenifere whose voice remains widely respected across the country.
He also recalled the assassination attempt on Pa Fasoranti during the regime of late military ruler Sani Abacha, noting that the elder statesman emerged stronger despite the challenges and tragedies he experienced over the years, including the death of his wife and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, in 2019.
The President expressed gratitude to Pa Fasoranti for his prayers and support during his presidential ambition, recalling that the elder statesman prayed for his victory during a visit to Akure before the 2023 election.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
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