President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tributes to the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, following his death at the age of 100.
President Tinubu in his tribute released on Tuesday, described the elder statesman as a man of principle whose lifetime of service left a lasting impact on Nigeria.
The Nigerian leader said he received the news of Fasoranti’s death with deep sadness, describing him as “our father, patriarch, elder statesman, and foremost Afenifere leader.”
“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, our father, patriarch, elder statesman, and foremost Afenifere leader, who died at the glorious age of 100,” the President said.
Tinubu extended condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, Ondo State, the Afenifere family and Nigerians, saying the country had lost one of its most respected leaders.
He described the late nationalist as “an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family.”
According to the President, Fasoranti’s 100-year life reflected integrity, discipline, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria.
“From his days as an educationist and principal, to his stewardship as Commissioner for Finance in the Ondo State, and later as the leader of Afenifere, Baba never wavered in his belief in true federalism, social justice, and a Nigeria that works for all,” Tinubu said.
He added that the late Afenifere leader made enormous sacrifices for democracy and national development.
“Baba made immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today,” he said.
Tinubu said Nigeria would greatly miss Fasoranti’s wisdom and moral leadership.
“Our nation will sorely miss his voice of wisdom, moral authority, and fatherly counsel, especially now, when we need his guidance most,” he stated.
The President also recalled visiting Fasoranti at his residence in Akure in 2022 before the presidential election.
“I also recall his prayers and counsel when I came to his residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of my decision to contest the presidency. Pa Fasoranti told me I would be President in his lifetime, and God answered his prayer,” Tinubu said.
He added that he had hoped the elder statesman would also witness his second term and the full benefits of his administration’s economic reforms.
“I had hoped Papa would also be around with us for my second term to witness the full dawn of economic growth and prosperity in the land.”
Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort everyone mourning the elder statesman.