President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, described elder statesman and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as a symbol of courage, justice, and unwavering commitment to national development.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stated this at the celebration of Fasoranti’s 100th birthday, held in Akure, Ondo State.
The event was attended by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; a former governor of Ondo State, and other top Nigerian leaders.
The President said Fasoranti’s life reflects “the courage of prophets, the patience of teachers, the sacrifices of patriots, and the dignity of elders.”
He noted that the Afenifere leader’s significance goes beyond his longevity, emphasising that he actively shaped Nigeria’s history rather than observing it from the sidelines.
“The legend we gather to celebrate today is an eloquent reminder of these miracles. Chief Dr Reuben Fasoranti stands out because he has been a long-standing witness to history and because he never watched history from the safety of the pavilion.
“We live in a country where those privileged to serve the people too often end up serving their own interests. When public duty becomes private appetite, the nation is made unsafe for the vulnerable. When power begets compassion, the weak are abandoned to the cold margins of society,” he added.
The President lamented a culture where public office is often used for personal gain, warning that such tendencies leave the vulnerable unprotected.
In contrast, he said Fasoranti stood out by consistently advocating for the underrepresented and prioritising national interest over personal comfort.
According to him, the centenarian’s lifelong commitment to justice and democracy earned him respect across generations, having witnessed Nigeria’s journey from colonial rule through independence, military regimes, and democratic governance.
Tinubu said Chief Fasoranti did not wait for danger to pass before speaking out, but instead chose the difficult path of principle, even when it came at personal cost.
