From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on his 99th birthday, praising his lifelong dedication to public service, education, and Yoruba political ideals.
In a statement he personally signed on Sunday, the President said, “Today, I rejoice with the family, political associates, and friends of our dear father, leader and patriarch, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as we celebrate his remarkable journey of 99 years on earth.” He added, “Baba has enjoyed extraordinary grace from God in attaining this age. Even though he appears frail due to old age, his mind remains active and sharp”.
President Tinubu described Fasoranti as “undoubtedly one of the rare Nigerians who gave all to public service and served unblemished at every opportunity.” He highlighted Fasoranti’s career as a teacher, principal, and educationist, noting his founding of Omolere Nursery School and Akure High School, which stand as enduring legacies of his commitment to community development.
Reflecting on Fasoranti’s political journey, Tinubu emphasized his deep roots in Yoruba values of honour, integrity, and progressivism. “As a committed political activist of his era, he joined Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group and later became one of the prime movers of the Unity Party of Nigeria led by Chief Awolowo,” the President said. He also recalled Fasoranti’s service as Commissioner of Finance in Ondo State from 1979 to 1983, where his sound fiscal management contributed to significant achievements in free education, healthcare, rural development, and employment programs.
The President further praised Fasoranti’s resilience during Nigeria’s darkest political times, stating, “In Nigeria’s darkest hours of military dictatorship and tyranny unleashed by Late General Sani Abacha, Baba Fasoranti and his comrades at Afenifere and NADECO stood firm and unbowed. Baba and his colleagues’ resilience inspired and strengthened us, the younger ones”.
Tinubu also shared a personal reflection: “When I decided to run for the presidency of Nigeria three years ago, I visited Baba Fasoranti at his residence in Akure. I remain deeply grateful for his blessings, unflinching support, and his belief in my vision for our country”.
Concluding, the President wished the elder statesman well, saying, “Happy birthday to our dear leader and father. May our communities never lack wise elders such as Baba Fasoranti. May his life inspire us to pursue public good with courage and conviction”.