Tinubu hails Reuben Fasoranti at 100, describes him as symbol of integrity
President Bola Tinubu has celebrated elder statesman and leader of Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a symbol of integrity, discipline and dedicated service to Nigeria.
In a tribute released on Sunday ahead of Fasoranti’s centenary celebration on May 11, Tinubu said, “My joy knows no bounds as we witness Pa Reuben Fasoranti, our father, elder statesman, administrator, pro-democracy activist, prominent politician, and foremost Afenifere leader, attain the milestone age of 100.”
The President praised Fasoranti’s contributions to education, politics and the pro-democracy struggle, saying the elder statesman “deserves all the encomiums that will come his way on this occasion for his uncommon life of service and immense contributions to this country.”
Tinubu described the Afenifere leader’s life as “a metaphor for integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership.”
He highlighted Fasoranti’s educational background at the University of Ibadan, the University of Hull and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia, while also commending his impact in the education sector through teaching and the establishment of schools in Ondo State.
The President recalled Fasoranti’s political journey as a disciple of late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo and a member of the defunct Action Group and the Unity Party of Nigeria.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti played a key role during Nigeria’s democratic struggle, noting that “Pa Fasoranti’s voice became one of the rallying voices against military dictatorship, demanding the return of democracy to the land.”
He further stated that the elder statesman emerged stronger after surviving an assassination attempt during the regime of late military ruler Sani Abacha.
