Tinubu, Shettima, Others Extol Virtues of Pa Fasoranti at Centenary Celebration By Saheed Badmus
Tinubu, Shettima, Others Extol Virtues of Pa Fasoranti at Centenary Celebration
By Saheed Badmus
Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Pa Fasoranti as a moral compass and living witness to Nigeria’s historical evolution, saying his life symbolises courage, sacrifice and principled commitment to public service.
Vice President Kashim Shettima who stated this on Monday on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he led a high-powered delegation of political leaders, traditional rulers and eminent Nigerians to Akure, Ondo State, for the centenary celebration of Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, OFR, CFR.
The Vice President noted that elder statesman belongs to a generation that shaped history rather than merely observing it, stressing that any society where leadership loses compassion for the vulnerable becomes weakened.
He commended Pa Fasoranti for consistently standing with the marginalised and giving voice to the underrepresented, noting that the Afenifere leader had always chosen principle over convenience and service over silence.
According to him, Pa Fasoranti’s lifetime spans Nigeria’s colonial era, independence, military rule, interrupted democratic transitions and the present constitutional order, yet he remained firmly rooted in justice and unity.
President Tinubu also recalled the celebrant’s background in education, noting that he began his career as a teacher and that although his classroom no longer has walls, his influence continues to resonate as a moral guide.
On behalf of the Federal Government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Vice President appreciated Pa Fasoranti for his contributions to education, democracy and nation-building, while praying for continued good health and an enduring legacy for the centenarian.
In his remarks, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, described Pa Fasoranti as a towering moral authority and living institution whose 100 years reflect discipline, integrity, courage and selfless service to humanity.
He said the centenary celebration transcends longevity, noting that it was a celebration of a life deeply woven into Nigeria’s moral and historical fabric.
The governor stated that Pa Fasoranti belongs to a rare class of individuals whose lives define the ethical character of their generation, adding that his century-long existence reflects sacrifice, conviction and unwavering principles.
He said the elder statesman had remained steadfast through Nigeria’s political transitions without compromising his ideals, describing him as a bridge between generations and a custodian of enduring values.
According to him, the respect enjoyed by Pa Fasoranti is not founded on political office or material wealth, but on moral authority, which he described as the highest form of leadership.
The governor urged younger Nigerians to emulate Pa Fasoranti’s discipline, truthfulness and selfless service, stressing that enduring greatness is built on integrity rather than temporary recognition.
He also praised the elder statesman’s humility and simplicity, describing him as a leader who commands influence without arrogance.
Governor Aiyedatiwa prayed for continued sound health for the centenarian and declared: “Happy 100th birthday, our own living legend, Pa Fasoranti.”
In his goodwill message, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, said it was a privilege to represent his state at the celebration, describing Pa Fasoranti as an icon whose life continues to command national admiration.
Abiodun noted that the tributes delivered by leaders at the event reflected a common acknowledgment of the elder statesman’s enduring legacy.
Former Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, described the occasion as a celebration of dignity, honour, integrity and resilience in adversity.
Mimiko said Pa Fasoranti exemplifies humility and principled leadership, noting that the elder statesman personally insisted that the celebration be held within his residence.
He described Pa Fasoranti as a complete man whose life offers enduring lessons in leadership and character, while praying for the fulfilment of his remaining aspirations.
The celebration, held at Fasoranti’s residence along Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure, drew prominent personalities from across the country.
In attendance were Ondo State Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly; Rt. Hon Olamide Oladiji; members of the State Executive Council; members of the legislature; former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; former Osun State Deputy Governor, Senator Iyiola Omisore; and the Special Adviser to the President on General Duties and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Aliyu Modibbo Umar.
Others at the event included Afenifere chieftain, Bashorun Sehinde Arogbofa; representatives of the Ekiti State Government led by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Omolara Adubiaro; members of the National Assembly; members of state assemblies; top government officials; and traditional rulers.
Traditional rulers present at the celebration included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, represented by Olori Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi; the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of Council of Obas, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo; and other monarchs from across Yorubaland.
Also in attendance were members of the organisation; members of the Fasoranti family; children; grandchildren; and other well-wishers.
The celebration, held at Fasoranti’s residence along Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure, drew prominent personalities from across the country.
