Dare Babalola
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as he marked his 100th birthday on Monday, describing him as a man whose century-long life has remained untarnished by scandal or dishonour.
Saraki, in a message posted on his X handle, said Fasoranti’s spotless record over the last 100 years was itself the greatest honour that could be bestowed on him.
“100 years, and not a stain on his name. That alone is the tribute worth paying to the leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti,” Saraki wrote.
He praised the nonagenarian for assuming leadership of Afenifere at a turbulent period when the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation was deeply divided and the nation faced political uncertainty. According to Saraki, Fasoranti provided the principled leadership needed to steady the group and preserve its ideals.
“When the mantle of Afenifere fell to him, it came at a difficult time: a fragmented house, a country in flux, and a Yoruba political tradition that needed someone unbought to hold the centre. Baba held it firmly,” he stated.
Saraki further commended the elder statesman’s resilience in the face of personal tragedies and shifting political seasons, noting that he had remained steadfast and honourable through every challenge.
“Despite the personal trials that have come his way, and the political seasons that have tested every one of us, he has remained upright through it all,” he added.
He concluded by offering prayers for Fasoranti’s continued health and longevity as he joined the league of centenarians.
“As he joins the league of centenarians today, my family and I pray that the Almighty keep him with us for many more years in good health and sound mind. Happy Birthday, Baba!”
Pa Fasoranti is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost Yoruba leaders and a respected voice in national affairs.
President Bola Tinubu, in his own tribute on Sunday, highlighted the elder statesman’s distinguished educational background, noting that he studied at University College, Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan), the University of Hull in the United Kingdom, and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
Tinubu also recalled Fasoranti’s contributions to education through his years as a teacher and proprietor, establishing institutions such as Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy, which he founded in honour of his late wife.
The President further described Fasoranti as a loyal disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and one of the last surviving Awoists, noting that he served in the Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria. He also served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State from 1979 to 1983, where he was credited with integrity and prudent management of public finances.
Tinubu praised Fasoranti’s role in the pro-democracy struggle during military rule, saying he stood firmly against dictatorship and became one of the leading voices for democratic restoration. He also recognised his emergence as the authentic leader of Afenifere after internal divisions following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.
The President referenced the assassination attempt Fasoranti survived during the Abacha era, as well as the personal losses he endured, including the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, in 2019. Despite these painful moments, Tinubu said the elder statesman remained resolute and committed to service.
