President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the leader of the Afenifere socio-political group, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing him as a steadfast advocate of national unity, justice, and the dignity of Nigerians as he marked his 100th birthday in Akure, Ondo State.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu made the remarks on Monday at the centenary celebration held in honour of the elder statesman, commending his decades-long contributions to education, democracy, and public service.
The President said Pa Fasoranti had consistently sacrificed personal comfort to defend the rights of the under-represented and speak against oppression.
“Chief Fasoranti gave voice to the under-represented and sacrificed his comfort in doing so,” Tinubu said, noting that the centenarian embraced “the burden of advocacy and the risk of standing with those society ignored.”
He added that leaders like Fasoranti stand out in a society where public office is often misused for personal gain, stressing that such behaviour undermines national stability.
“When public duty becomes private appetite, the nation is made unsafe for the vulnerable,” the President stated.
Tinubu further described Fasoranti as both a teacher and a moral compass whose influence has extended beyond the classroom into national conscience and civic leadership.
According to him, Fasoranti’s lifelong commitment to education and principled leadership has shaped generations and strengthened the foundations of democratic values in Nigeria.
Vice President Shettima, representing the President, also commissioned a flyover project in Akure named after Pa Fasoranti by the Ondo State Government in honour of his legacy.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the elder statesman as a symbol of integrity and principled leadership, saying his life demonstrates that public service is a sacred responsibility rather than a path to personal enrichment.
He added that naming the infrastructure after Fasoranti was a tribute to his contributions to truth, justice, and good governance.
Also speaking, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun paid tribute to the celebrant, describing him as an iconic Nigerian whose life continues to inspire national values and unity.
In his centenary address, read by a family representative, Pa Fasoranti reflected on his experiences through colonial rule, independence, military regimes, and democracy, stating that his guiding principles have remained fear of God, hard work, and service to humanity.
He urged younger Nigerians to embrace leadership rooted in sacrifice, integrity, and forgiveness, stressing that true public service should be devoid of bitterness or personal gain.
“I have seen colonial rule. I have seen independence. I have seen war and peace. Through it all, one thing has sustained me: the fear of God, hard work, and service to others,” he said.
The celebration drew political leaders, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the country in honour of the elder statesman’s 100 years of impactful life.
