Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa have paid tribute to Afenifere leader Reuben Fasoranti on his 100th birthday.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Ooni’s director of media and public affairs, Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi described Mr Fasoranti as one of the surviving voices of wisdom and leadership in Nigeria.
The monarch said Fasoranti’s life reflected years of service to humanity, the Yoruba people and Nigeria.
According to him, the Afenifere leader had remained consistent on issues affecting Yorubaland and the country.
“Baba Fasoranti represents a generation that believed in sacrifice, honour, and genuine love for the people,” the Ooni said.
“His life continues to remind us that true leadership is about service, integrity, and commitment to humanity.”
The monarch also urged younger Nigerians to learn from Fasoranti’s life of public service and discipline.
In a separate statement issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu congratulated the elder statesman on attaining the age of 100.
The governor described Fasoranti as one of the followers of late Obafemi Awolowo and praised his contributions to Yorubaland and Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu said Fasoranti had contributed to public service, education and leadership over the years.
He also commended the Afenifere leader for advocating truth, justice, equity and good governance.
“On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, as well as my brother governors in the South-West, I congratulate Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on his centenary birthday celebration,” he said.
The governor prayed for continued good health and wisdom for the elder statesman.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, in a statement personally signed by him, said Fasoranti’s life had been dedicated to service, justice and the development of society.
He noted that the Afenifere leader played a role in the struggle for the creation of Ondo State in 1976 alongside other leaders.
According to him, Fasoranti also contributed to democratic struggles, education and the promotion of Yoruba cultural values.
Aiyedatiwa said the elder statesman’s life continued to inspire many people across the country.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier congratulated Fasoranti on his birthday, thanking him for his support and prayers over the years.
