President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti as he marks his 100th birthday on May 11, 2026.
In a personal message released by the Presidential Media Team on Sunday, President Tinubu described Pa Fasoranti as a symbol of integrity, honesty, patriotism, and dedicated service to Nigeria.
The President said he was delighted to witness the centenary celebration of the respected Yoruba leader, praising his lifelong contributions to education, politics, democracy, and national development.
According to Tinubu, Pa Fasoranti lived a disciplined and principled life, remaining committed to noble causes and the advancement of the country throughout his career.
He noted that the elder statesman strongly believed in education and pursued academic excellence at the University of Ibadan, the University of Hull, and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
Tinubu also highlighted Pa Fasoranti’s contributions to education through his work as a teacher and founder of several schools in Ondo State, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy in Akure.
The President further praised the Afenifere leader’s political journey, describing him as a loyal disciple of late nationalist Obafemi Awolowo and one of the few surviving Awoists.
He recalled that Pa 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. Between 1979 and 1983, he served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State under the administration of late Governor Adekunle Ajasin.
Tinubu said Pa Fasoranti earned a reputation for integrity and prudent financial management while serving in government.
The President also acknowledged the elder statesman’s role in the struggle against military dictatorship, noting that he became one of the leading voices advocating for democracy, Yoruba unity, and social development through Afenifere.
According to Tinubu, Pa Fasoranti remained the widely recognised leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group following internal divisions after the death of Abraham Adesanya.
He further recounted how the elder statesman survived an assassination attempt during the regime of late General Sani Abacha, saying the incident only strengthened his resolve against oppression and military rule.
Tinubu also reflected on the personal tragedies Pa Fasoranti endured, including the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in 2019.
The President thanked the nonagenarian for his prayers and unwavering support during his journey to the presidency, recalling his visit to Pa Fasoranti in Akure before the 2023 presidential election.
Tinubu said the elder statesman prayed for his victory and lived to witness his emergence as President, expressing gratitude for his continued support for the Renewed Hope administration.
He concluded by praying for God to grant Pa Fasoranti more years in good health while thanking him for his immense service to Nigeria.
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