President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, on attaining the milestone age of 100 years.
In a statement released by the State House on Sunday, Tinubu described Fasoranti as a symbol of integrity, discipline and dedicated service to Nigeria.
The president said the centenarian’s contributions to education, democracy and national development have earned him a respected place in Nigeria’s history.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti devoted much of his life to education and leadership.
He noted that the Afenifere leader studied at the University of Ibadan, formerly known as University College Ibadan, before obtaining postgraduate qualifications in the United Kingdom and Australia.
Tinubu said Fasoranti served as a teacher in several schools across Ondo State and later established educational institutions, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy in Akure.
The president also highlighted Fasoranti’s political journey as a loyal disciple of late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo.
He said Fasoranti was a member of the defunct Action Group during the First Republic and later joined the Unity Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic.
Tinubu recalled that Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of late Governor Adekunle Ajasin.
According to the president, Fasoranti’s integrity and financial discipline helped stabilise the state’s finances during his time in office.
The president also praised Fasoranti for his role during Nigeria’s struggle against military rule.
He described the Afenifere leader as one of the major voices that opposed military dictatorship and demanded the return of democracy.
Tinubu said Fasoranti became a leading figure in Afenifere, where he championed Yoruba unity, development and political solidarity.
According to the president, Fasoranti later emerged as the widely recognised leader of Afenifere following internal divisions within the group after the death of Abraham Adesanya.
Tinubu also recalled that Fasoranti survived an assassination attempt allegedly linked to the regime of late military ruler Sani Abacha. The president expressed gratitude for Fasoranti’s support during his presidential ambition.
Tinubu recalled visiting the elder statesman in Akure before the 2023 presidential election, where Fasoranti prayed for his victory.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti said he would live to witness his emergence as president, a prayer he believes was fulfilled.
The president thanked the Afenifere leader for his continued prayers and support for the Renewed Hope administration.
Tinubu also prayed for Fasoranti’s continued good health and long life, describing him as a national asset whose service and sacrifice would remain unforgettable in Nigeria’s history.