Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has extended warm felicitations to the leader of Pan-Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti on the occasion of his 99th birthday.
Senator Bamidele described Pa Fasoranti as a true defender of Yoruba values and a patriarch of unmatched integrity.
Fasoranti who was born in Uso, Ondo State on May 11, 1926, is a steadfast disciple of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo who has devoted his life to the defence of Yoruba interests.
Bamidele, in a statement issued to journalists on Sunday in Abuja by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, congratulated Pa Fasoranti on the milestone, while reflecting on his dedication to public education, resolute political activism, resilience in the face of adversity, and unwavering pursuit of Yoruba unity.
He also highlighted Pa Fasoranti’s pioneering role in education, noting that he singlehandedly established Akure High School as well as Omolere Nursery and Primary School after serving as Principal of prestigious Oyemekun Grammar School and Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School in the 1960s and 1970s.
“On behalf of all senators from Yoruba-speaking states, we celebrate the patriarch of Yorubaland, a true Omoluabi and an embodiment of humility, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as we mark his remarkable attainment of 99 years on earth,” he said.
He added that, “Pa Fasoranti exemplifies the Yoruba values of Omoluabi—honour, integrity, leadership, and selflessness. This is evident in his contributions to the progressive administration of Pa Adekunle Ajasin in Ondo State, where he served as Commissioner for Finance between 1979 and 1980 without blemish.
“He was among the brave pro-democracy advocates who fearlessly challenged the late tyrant, Gen. Sani Abacha, to protest against the reign of terror and demand the restoration of civil rule—an effort that culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic on May 29, 1999.”
Bamidele noted that Fasoranti’s contributions to education advanced the frontiers of human development in Ondo State as the core principles of the defunct Action Group and Unity Party of Nigeria.
He further described Fasoranti as “an inspiration to progressives in the South-West and beyond,” expressing confidence that his legacy in education and governance would continue to guide current and future generations.
“As Pa Fasoranti now inches toward his centenary, we pray that God Almighty blesses him with long life and keeps him in perfect health as a symbol of unity for all descendants of Oduduwa,” he added.
