ABUJA — In a rare moment of national unanimity that transcends the often-fractious nature of Nigerian politics, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led a chorus of global tributes to celebrate the 100th birthday of Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
Describing the centenarian as a “living metaphor for integrity,” the President’s tribute, released on the eve of the milestone, paints a portrait of a man whose life has been inextricably linked with the evolution of the Nigerian state—from the idealistic dawns of the First Republic to the rugged trenches of pro-democracy activism.
A Century of Principles
President Tinubu’s message was not merely a congratulatory note but a deep dive into the “Spartan” discipline that has defined Pa Fasoranti’s century on earth. For the President, Fasoranti represents the “last of the titans,” a bridge between the founding philosophies of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the contemporary democratic dispensation.
“Baba Fasoranti deserves all the encomiums that will come his way for his uncommon life of service,” the President stated. “His life is a metaphor for honesty, dedicated service to the nation, and true leadership.”
The Financial Architect of Old Ondo
The tribute highlighted a crucial, yet sometimes overlooked, chapter of Fasoranti’s career: his tenure as the Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin (1979–1983). During a period where regional governments were laying the foundations for infrastructure, Fasoranti was the “custodian of the purse,” known for a brand of financial prudence that is often cited as the gold standard for public office holders today.
The Leader of the Afenifere Vanguard
Perhaps the most politically significant aspect of the President’s tribute was the explicit validation of Pa Fasoranti’s leadership within Afenifere. Amidst years of internal friction within the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, President Tinubu was unequivocal:
“To this date, Baba remains the only recognised leader of Afenifere.”
This statement reaffirms Fasoranti’s role not just as a regional elder, but as the moral compass of the Yoruba people, particularly during the “years of the locusts” when he stood defiantly against the military dictatorship of General Sani Abacha—even surviving a documented assassination attempt by state agents.
A Personal Bond: The Road to the Presidency
The President also reflected on the spiritual and political endorsement he received from the sage. Recalling his visit to Akure at the onset of his presidential campaign, Tinubu noted that Fasoranti’s prayer—that he would live to see a “Renewed Hope” administration—has been divinely fulfilled.
As the nation celebrates this rare centenary, the consensus remains that Pa Fasoranti is not just a Yoruba leader, but a national treasure whose 100 years serve as a blueprint for the “Omoluabi” ethos—the marriage of character, competence, and courage.
