By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko and several eminent Nigerians on Monday paid glowing tributes to elder statesman and leader of Afenifere, Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as he clocked 100 years.
The centenary celebration, held at Pa Fasoranti’s residence along Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure, attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, government officials and prominent personalities from across the country.
In a tribute personally signed by him, President Tinubu described Pa Fasoranti as a symbol of integrity, courage and principled leadership whose life reflects uncommon service to Nigeria and humanity.
The President said the elder statesman had distinguished himself through discipline, honesty, dedication to national development and unwavering commitment to noble causes, noting that his life remains a metaphor for true leadership.
Tinubu recalled Pa Fasoranti’s contributions to education, highlighting his career as a teacher and founder of educational institutions including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy, Igoba, Akure.
He also praised the Afenifere leader’s political and democratic credentials, describing him as one of the last surviving disciples of late nationalist, Obafemi Awolowo.
According to the President, Pa Fasoranti played key roles in the defunct Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria, where he served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State during the administration of late Governor Adekunle Ajasin.
Tinubu further commended the elder statesman for his resistance against military dictatorship and his consistent advocacy for democracy, Yoruba unity and national development, noting that he remained steadfast even after surviving an assassination attempt during the regime of late General Sani Abacha.
The President expressed gratitude for Pa Fasoranti’s support and prayers during his presidential campaign, recalling his visit to Akure before the 2023 election where the elder statesman prayed for his victory.
Vice President Shettima, who represented President Tinubu at the event, described the centenarian as a moral compass and living witness to Nigeria’s political and historical evolution.
According to him, Pa Fasoranti belongs to a generation that shaped history rather than merely observing it, adding that his life symbolises courage, sacrifice and principled public service.
Shettima noted that the elder statesman consistently stood for justice and defended the vulnerable, stressing that he had always chosen principle over convenience and service over silence.
He said Pa Fasoranti’s influence extends beyond politics, noting that although he began life as a classroom teacher, he has remained a teacher to the nation through his moral guidance and advocacy.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, in his remarks, described the Afenifere leader as a towering moral authority, living institution and custodian of enduring values whose 100 years reflect integrity, discipline and selfless service.
The governor said the centenary celebration was not merely about longevity but about honouring a life deeply woven into Nigeria’s moral and political history.
According to him, the respect and influence enjoyed by Pa Fasoranti were earned not through wealth or political office but through moral authority and consistency in leadership.
Aiyedatiwa urged younger Nigerians to emulate the elder statesman’s virtues of truthfulness, humility and sacrifice, stressing that lasting greatness is built on character and integrity.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described Pa Fasoranti as a national icon whose life continues to inspire admiration across generations, while former Governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko characterised him as a symbol of dignity, honour, resilience and principled leadership.
Mimiko noted that the elder statesman deliberately chose to celebrate the milestone within the simplicity of his residence, saying the decision reflected his humility and modest lifestyle.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, former Osun State Deputy Governor, Iyiola Omisore, and traditional rulers from across Yorubaland.
Among the monarchs present were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi represented by Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Ademefun Kiladejo.
Also in attendance were members of the National Assembly, state lawmakers, top government officials, Afenifere chieftains, family members and other well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the elder statesman’s century-long legacy of service and leadership.
