The Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, has felicitated with elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as he marks his 99th birthday, describing him as a tireless defender of Yoruba interest and an enduring symbol of integrity and selflessness.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, Senator Bamidele commended the nonagenarian for a lifetime devoted to public education, political activism and the pursuit of justice for the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large.
Born on 11 May 1926 in Uso, Ondo State, Pa Fasoranti, a committed disciple of the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has led Yoruba’s foremost socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, dedicating decades to promoting the region’s political and cultural interests.
“On behalf of all senators from Yoruba-speaking states, we celebrate the patriarch of Yoruba-speaking states, a true Omoluabi and an embodiment of humility, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as we honour his remarkable attainment of 99 years,” Bamidele said.
He highlighted Pa Fasoranti’s contributions to the education sector, recalling how he established Akure High School and Omolere Nursery and Primary School after serving as principal of Oyemekun Grammar School and Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School in the 1960s and 1970s.
According to Senator Bamidele, the initiatives pushed forward the frontiers of human development in Ondo State, aligning with the philosophies of the defunct Action Group and Unity Party of Nigeria.
Senator Bamidele also praised Pa Fasoranti’s political courage, recalling his role as Commissioner for Finance under the administration of the late Pa Adekunle Ajasin in Ondo State between 1979 and 1980, which he served without blemish.
He further lauded Pa Fasoranti’s involvement in the pro-democracy struggle against the military dictatorship of the late General Sani Abacha, efforts that contributed to the restoration of civil rule and the birth of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic on 29 May 1999.
“Pa Fasoranti is an inspiration to progressives in the South-West and beyond. We believe he will continue to be a source of inspiration to this generation and posterity, given his records of stewardship in education and governance,” the Senate leader said.
“As Pa Fasoranti now inches towards his centenary, we pray God Almighty will bless him with a longer life and keep him in perfect frame of mind as a symbol of unity for the entire descendants of Oduduwa,” he added.
