99 Birthday: Tinubu pays tribute to Afenifere leader, Pa Fasoranti

Fasoranti

By JAMIU JAMODU

Today, I rejoice with the family, political associates, and friends of our dear father, leader and patriarch, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, in celebrating his remarkable journey of 99 years on earth.

Baba has enjoyed extraordinary grace from God in attaining this age. Even when he appears frail due to old age, his mind remains active and sharp.

He is undoubtedly one of the rare Nigerians who gave all to public service and served unblemished at every opportunity.

Baba’s career as a teacher, principal, and educationist reflects his commitment to public service and community development. After retirement, he established Omolere Nursery School and Akure High School. Both schools still stand today as monuments to his outstanding legacy as a school administrator.

His political odyssey is deeply rooted in Yoruba ideals of honour, integrity, and progressivism. As a committed political activist of his era, he joined Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group. He later became one of the prime movers of the Unity Party of Nigeria led by Chief Awolowo. Throughout the sage’s life, Baba Fasoranti remained one of his trusted allies.

He served with honour as Commissioner of Finance in the government of our venerable leader, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, between 1979 and 1983 in Ondo State. Baba Fasoranti’s distinguished tenure of sound fiscal management of the state’s finances ensured the remarkable achievements recorded by the Ajasin administration and faithful implementation of the UPN cardinal programmes—free education, free healthcare, rural development, and sustainable employment.