Tinubu sends powerful message as Pa Fasoranti hits 100 years

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a symbol of integrity, honesty and dedicated service to Nigeria.

In a personally signed statement released on Sunday, Tinubu said his “joy knows no bounds” as the renowned nationalist and pro-democracy activist attained the milestone age of 100 on May 11.

The President said Fasoranti deserved “all the encomiums” for what he described as an uncommon life of service and immense contributions to the country.

According to Tinubu, the Afenifere leader distinguished himself through his disciplined lifestyle, commitment to noble causes and unwavering belief in principles.

“Pa Fasoranti has distinguished himself in all respects: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes,” Tinubu said.

He added, “His life is a metaphor for integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership.”

The President traced Fasoranti’s educational and professional journey, noting that the elder statesman understood early in life the importance of education as a tool for societal transformation.

Tinubu noted that Fasoranti obtained a degree in English and Geography from the University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, before furthering his studies in the United Kingdom and Australia.

He also highlighted Fasoranti’s contributions to the education sector through his teaching career and the establishment of schools in Ondo State, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy, Igoba, Akure.

Tinubu, however, said Fasoranti made even greater impact through politics and activism, describing him as one of the last surviving disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The President recalled that Fasoranti was a member of the defunct Action Group in the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.

He said Fasoranti served meritoriously as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin.

“It is on record that his integrity and financial prudence helped manage the state’s finances,” Tinubu stated.

The President further praised Fasoranti’s role during the military era, saying the elder statesman became one of the leading voices against dictatorship and a strong advocate for democracy, Yoruba unity and development.

Tinubu noted that Fasoranti remained the authentic and widely recognised leader of Afenifere following internal divisions within the group after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.

“To this date, Baba remains the only recognised leader of Afenifere,” he said.

The President also reflected on the personal tragedies Fasoranti endured, including an assassination attempt during the late General Sani Abacha regime, the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in 2019.

Despite the painful experiences, Tinubu said Fasoranti remained resilient and committed to national service.

The President expressed gratitude to the elder statesman for his support and prayers throughout his political journey, especially during the 2023 presidential campaign.

“At the start of my campaign for the presidency, I visited Pa Fasoranti in Akure, Ondo State capital. Baba prayed for my electoral victory, saying he would live to witness my ascension to the presidency,” Tinubu said.

“God answered his prayer through my victory and eventual ascendancy to the top office,” he added.

Tinubu thanked Fasoranti for believing in his vision and supporting the Renewed Hope Administration.

“Above all, I thank Pa Fasoranti for his service to Nigeria,” the President stated.