Senate Asks Federal Govt To Rename Education Institution After Fasoranti

The Senate has urged the federal government to immortalise the late national leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, by renaming an educational institution after him in recognition of his contributions to education and national development.

The upper chamber made the recommendation yesterday following a motion sponsored by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC, Ondo Central) during plenary.

Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100, was described by the lawmakers as a committed advocate of education, democracy, good governance and national unity.

Moving the motion, Adegbonmire, chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, said the late elder statesman’s contributions to education had significantly influenced his approach to governance, particularly his commitment to human welfare and humanitarian service.

He urged the federal government to immortalise Fasoranti by naming an educational institution after him in recognition of his contributions to the advancement of education in South-west Nigeria.

The senator described the deceased as a committed follower of the late nationalist and politician, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who led the Action Group during the First Republic and later became associated with the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.

Adegbonmire also noted that Fasoranti was among prominent Nigerians who opposed military rule and consistently advocated the restoration of democratic governance.

“Pa Fasoranti remained steadfast in the struggle for democracy. He was a man who spoke truth to power, honest and upright. He saw and promoted the need to collaborate with other socio-political organisations, such as Arewa and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, towards having a better Nigeria.

“He believed in one united and prosperous Nigeria and promoted this all through his life,” the senator said.

Adegbonmire further urged the Senate to constitute a delegation to convey its condolences to the people of Ondo State and the family of the deceased.

Supporting the motion, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North, described Fasoranti as a strong advocate of education who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s educational development.

Ipinsagba also praised the late Afenifere leader for his efforts towards promoting peace and unity in Yorubaland and across the country.

Following the debate, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, who presided over plenary, approved the prayers of the motion.

The Senate subsequently observed a minute’s silence in honour of the late elder statesman.