Tinubu, Aiyedatiwa, Abiodun, Mimiko others celebrate Afenifere leader, Fasoranti at 100
By Julius Alabi, Akure
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, at his residence in Akure, Ondo State, during activities marking the centenary of the nonagenarian.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the President, led a high-powered delegation of political leaders, traditional rulers and eminent Nigerians to the celebration held at Fasoranti’s home.
Speaking at the event, Shettima described the elder statesman as a moral compass and living witness to Nigeria’s historical evolution, noting that his life reflects courage, sacrifice and principled commitment to public service.
He said Fasoranti belongs to a generation that shaped history rather than merely observing it, warning that any society that loses compassion for the vulnerable risks decline.
The Vice President commended the Afenifere leader for consistently standing with the marginalised and amplifying the voices of the underrepresented, stressing that he has always chosen principle over convenience and service over silence.
He observed that Fasoranti’s lifetime spans Nigeria’s colonial era, independence, military rule and democratic transitions, yet he has remained unwavering in his commitment to justice and unity.
Shettima also highlighted the celebrant’s background in education, noting that although he began his career as a teacher, his influence has extended far beyond the classroom to become a guiding moral force in national discourse.
He conveyed the Federal Government’s appreciation and prayed for continued good health for the centenarian.
In his remarks, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, described Fasoranti as a towering moral authority and living institution, whose 100 years reflect discipline, integrity and selfless service.
According to him, the celebration transcends longevity, representing a life deeply interwoven with Nigeria’s moral and historical fabric. He added that the elder statesman belongs to a rare class whose lives define the ethical character of their generation.
Aiyedatiwa noted that Fasoranti has remained steadfast through Nigeria’s political transitions without compromising his ideals, describing him as a bridge between generations and a custodian of enduring values.
He urged younger Nigerians to emulate his discipline, truthfulness and commitment to service.
Also speaking, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described the celebrant as an icon whose life commands national admiration, noting that tributes at the event reflected a shared recognition of his enduring legacy.
Former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, said the occasion symbolised dignity, honour and resilience, adding that Fasoranti exemplifies humility and principled leadership.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi; former Osun State Deputy Governor, Iyiola Omisore; and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Aliyu Modibbo Umar, among others.
Traditional rulers present included the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (represented); the Olowo of Owo, Ajibade Ogunoye; the Deji of Akure, Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; and the Osemawe of Ondo, Victor Kiladejo.
Members of the Fasoranti family, associates and well-wishers were also in attendance.
