President Bola Tinubu has penned a glowing tribute to elder statesman Pa Reuben Fasoranti as he attains the milestone age of 100, describing him as a “living metaphor for integrity” and a pillar of Nigerian democracy.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed immense joy and gratitude as Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the foremost leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, celebrates his 100th birthday today, May 11, 2026. In a deeply personal tribute, the President described the centenarian as a distinguished administrator, pro-democracy activist, and a “last surviving Awoist” whose life remains a beacon of leadership and moral rectitude.
President Tinubu highlighted Pa Fasoranti’s academic pedigree, noting his studies at the University of Ibadan, the University of Hull (UK), and Maguire University (Australia). This foundation in education translated into a lifelong commitment to the sector, with Fasoranti serving as a teacher at his alma mater, Ondo Boys’ High School, and later establishing several institutions in Akure, including the Omolere Nursery and Primary School and St. Frances’ Academy.
Beyond the classroom, the President recalled Fasoranti’s meritorious service as the Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin (1979–1983). Tinubu credited the elder statesman’s “integrity and financial prudence” for the successful management of the state’s resources during that era.
The tribute paid special attention to Fasoranti’s role as a rallying voice against military dictatorship. As a leader within Afenifere, he stood firm against tyranny, even surviving an assassination attempt by agents of the late General Sani Abacha’s regime.
“Baba emerged from the unsuccessful attempt even stronger and more resilient against the tyranny and oppression of the military,” the President noted. He reaffirmed that despite past factionalism within the group, Pa Fasoranti remains the “only recognized leader of Afenifere” and a symbol of Yoruba solidarity.
The President acknowledged the profound personal storms Pa Fasoranti has weathered, including the loss of his wife in 1991 and the tragic killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in 2019. Despite these challenges, Tinubu marveled at the centenarian’s ability to “soldier on” with grace.
President Tinubu expressed his “eternal gratitude” to Pa Fasoranti for his unwavering support during the 2023 presidential campaign. He recalled his visit to the elder statesman’s home in Akure, where the centenarian predicted he would live to witness Tinubu’s ascension to the presidency.
“God answered his prayer through my victory and eventual ascendancy to the top office,” Tinubu said. He thanked “Baba” for his continued prayers for the Renewed Hope Administration and prayed that God would keep the elder statesman for many more years to continue benefiting the nation with his intrinsic worth.
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