Embrace Fasoranti’s Sacrificial Leadership, Fayemi Advises Ruling Class

As he pays glowing tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, on his 100th birthday, a former governor of Ekiti State and chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has appealed to the ruling class to emulate his sacrificial and accountable stewardship.

Fayemi described the elder statesman as a symbol of integrity, courage and principled leadership.

In a tribute he issued yesterday to journalists in Abuja through his Media Office, Fayemi said, “At 100 years, Baba Fasoranti remains a towering symbol of integrity in public life,” adding that true leadership should be measured by sacrifice, consistency and fidelity to principle rather than power or position.

Fasoranti’s attainment of 100 years was “a rare divine blessing,” and the nonagenarian’s enduring relevance to national life made the milestone even more remarkable.

The former governor described Fasoranti as “an extraordinary patriot, elder statesman, democracy activist and Afenifere leader,” whose life embodied sacrifice, justice, good governance, and a commitment to advancing the Yoruba people within a united democratic Nigeria.

Fayemi, who referred to Fasoranti as a father figure, mentor, and moral compass, said he had benefitted from the elder statesman’s wisdom, encouragement, and steadfast belief in principled leadership.

According to him, Fasoranti remained unwavering in his convictions during periods of political uncertainty and national turbulence, consistently promoting courage, moderation, discipline, and service to the people.

Highlighting Fasoranti’s contributions to education and human development, Fayemi noted that the Afenifere leader studied at the then University College Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, before obtaining postgraduate qualifications in education from the University of Hull and Maguire University, Australia.

He also praised Fasoranti’s role in Nigeria’s democratic struggle, recalling his participation in the Action Group during the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic, where he served as Commissioner for Finance under the administration of late Adekunle Ajasin in old Ondo State.

Fayemi further commended Fasoranti’s resilience during the military era, saying his commitment to democratic freedoms, constitutionalism, and the rights of citizens helped sustain the democratic spirit that eventually led to the return of civilian rule in Nigeria.

He described Fasoranti as an enduring symbol of unity, cultural pride, federalism, and people-oriented governance, adding that the elder statesman had consistently advocated restructuring, equity, and true federalism as essential foundations for national stability and inclusive development.

The former governor concluded by congratulating Fasoranti on behalf of his wife, Bisi, and the entire family, praying for continued peace, strength, and joy for the centenarian.