Fasoranti @ 100: N’Assembly Caucus Celebrates Afenifere Leader

The National Assembly South-West Caucus on Sunday celebrated the leader of Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a dogged defender of Yoruba interests and a relentless advocate for justice and democratic governance in Nigeria.

The caucus, comprising federal lawmakers from the South-West geopolitical zone, also stated that Pa Fasoranti’s long-standing vision for “a truly recalibrated federal governance structure” is gradually becoming a reality.

Chairman of the caucus and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, made the remarks in a statement issued on Sunday by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs.

Paying glowing tribute to the elder statesman, Bamidele described Fasoranti as one of the last surviving disciples of the late nationalist leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, noting that he remains a symbol of humility, integrity and principled leadership.

According to him, the Afenifere leader played a prominent role in the struggle for the restoration of democracy during the military era, which culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic in 1999.

“Baba Fasoranti perfectly embodies the Yoruba values of Omoluabi — honour, integrity, leadership and selflessness,” Bamidele said.

“In the Second Republic, he served creditably in the administration of Pa Adekunle Ajasin in the old Ondo State and contributed immensely to the welfare of the people.

“He was also one of the loudest voices that fearlessly spoke against military dictatorship after the Second Republic and consistently demanded the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria, an effort that culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic on May 29, 1999.”

The Senate Leader noted that even after the return to democratic rule, Fasoranti remained unwavering in his advocacy for a peaceful, prosperous and equitable Nigeria.

He added that the elder statesman has continued to provide guidance and mentorship to leaders across the country while championing calls for a fair and balanced governance structure.

Bamidele stated that members of the South-West caucus, alongside the broader National Assembly, remain conscious of Fasoranti’s expectations for a stronger federation capable of addressing the country’s political, economic and security challenges.

According to him, ongoing constitutional reforms by the National Assembly are aimed at creating a more competitive, productive and efficient federal system.

He expressed optimism that some of the reforms, particularly the establishment of state police, would become reality during Fasoranti’s lifetime.

“Before the end of the 10th National Assembly, we are introducing state police as one of the measures to deal decisively with the security challenges confronting the federation,” Bamidele said.

“The initiative is part of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution, and we hope it will come into force in Baba’s lifetime.”

He also highlighted the establishment of regional development commissions across the geo-political zones as part of efforts to bridge infrastructure gaps and promote balanced national development.

According to him, the National Assembly has also put in place fiscal reforms designed to support the implementation of people-oriented programmes and strengthen national growth.

“As Baba lives on by God’s grace, he will witness more pro-people initiatives that reflect his vision for an equitable, fair and just Nigeria. This is a pledge we are determined to fulfil, possibly within the lifetime of Pa Fasoranti,” Bamidele added.