President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Afenifere leader Reuben Fasoranti on his 100th birthday, describing him as a man of integrity and service to Nigeria.
In a statement signed by the president on Saturday, President Tinubu said his “joy knows no bounds” as Mr Fasoranti marks the milestone on Monday, May 11.
“My joy knows no bounds as we witness Pa Reuben Fasoranti attain the milestone age of 100 on May 11,” he said.
The president said Fasoranti had contributed to education, politics and the struggle for democracy in Nigeria.
He noted that the elder statesman studied at University of Ibadan, University of Hull and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.
Tinubu also highlighted Fasoranti’s role in education through his work as a teacher and founder of schools including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy in Akure.
The president described Fasoranti as a follower of late Obafemi Awolowo and a member of the former Action Group and Unity Party of Nigeria.
He recalled that Fasoranti served as commissioner for finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983.
Tinubu also praised the elder statesman’s role during military rule, saying he was among those who spoke against dictatorship and supported the return to democracy.
He said Fasoranti later became leader of Afenifere after the death of Abraham Adesanya.
The president noted that Fasoranti survived an assassination attempt during the regime of late Sani Abacha and also endured personal losses, including the death of his wife and daughter, Funke Olakunrin.
Tinubu thanked Fasoranti for supporting his presidential ambition and prayed for more years for the elder statesman.
“I thank Baba for his prayers, his belief in my vision, and his continued support for our Renewed Hope Administration,” he said.
