President Bola Tinubu has congratulated elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as he marks his 100th birthday on May 11, describing him as a towering figure of integrity, discipline and national service.

Tinubu, in a personally signed statement issued on Saturday, said his “joy knows no bounds” as Fasoranti attains the centenary milestone, adding that the Yoruba leader deserves “all the encomiums that will come his way” for his contributions to Nigeria.

“My joy knows no bounds as we witness Pa Reuben Fasoranti… attain the milestone age of 100 on May 11,” the President said.

He described Fasoranti as “a metaphor for integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership,” praising what he called the elder statesman’s “uncommon life of service” and commitment to principles.

Tinubu highlighted Fasoranti’s educational background, noting his studies at the University College, Ibadan (now University of Ibadan), the University of Hull in the United Kingdom, and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.

He also recalled his contributions to education through teaching and school establishment, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy, which he founded in honour of his late wife.

On politics, Tinubu said Fasoranti “distinguished himself in all respects” as a disciple of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and one of the last surviving Awoists, adding that he served in the Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria.
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The President noted that Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983, where “his integrity and financial prudence helped manage the state’s finances.”

He also praised Fasoranti’s role in pro-democracy struggles, saying he became “one of the rallying voices against military dictatorship, demanding the return of democracy to the land” during the military era.

Tinubu further described him as a key figure in Afenifere, saying he emerged as “the authentic leader” of the socio-political group after internal divisions following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.

The President also referenced past attacks on Fasoranti, noting that he survived an assassination attempt during the Abacha military regime and “emerged stronger and more resilient.”

Tinubu acknowledged personal losses suffered by the elder statesman, including the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, in 2019, saying, despite these, “Pa Fasoranti weathered the storms and is soldiering on.”

He also recalled Fasoranti’s support during his presidential campaign, saying the elder statesman prayed for his victory and “God answered his prayer” through his eventual emergence as President.

Tinubu thanked him for his continued support for the Renewed Hope administration and prayed for his long life, while also expressing gratitude for his service to the nation.