Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described the national leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, as a rare symbol of patriotism, courage, and integrity.
Aiyedatiwa, who stated that Fasoranti, whose life of selfless service has become a guiding light for generations of Nigerians, warned against the steady decline of cultural values among the Yoruba people and called for a concerted effort to preserve their heritage.
The governor made the remarks on Saturday in Akure, the state capital, during the second edition of the Chief Reuben Fasoranti Public Service Lecture, organised by the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Ondo State Chapter, in commemoration of the elder statesman’s 99th birthday.
Speaking at the Multi-Purpose Auditorium of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Aiyedatiwa extolled the virtues of the Afenifere leader, saying his life reflects the very essence of the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos.
“What we are celebrating here today is not just the number. It is not just the years in the life of an icon and one of the brightest lights of our country, Nigeria, but the life in the years and journey of an elder statesman and an exemplary personality who has exemplified service, courage, conviction, and devotion to humanity throughout his life,” the Governor said.
Aiyedatiwa added that it was no surprise that such a public lecture was chosen to mark Fasoranti’s 99th birthday, noting his long standing contributions to education, culture, and leadership in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the theme of the lecture — “Wanted: A Strong and United Yoruba Race as Panacea for Reviving the Vanishing Yoruba Values and Culture,” the governor described it as timely and deeply thought-provoking.
He said: “We must recognise the significance of our traditions, customs, and values in shaping our identity and informing our actions. As a people, we cannot afford to deviate from this noble trajectory.
“We must embark on cultural education by promoting awareness and appreciation of Yoruba culture, history, and values among our youth. It is also important to engage in intergenerational dialogue between elders and youth to preserve knowledge and values.”
Delivering the lecture for the event, Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State, emphasized the urgent need for unity among the Yoruba people to safeguard their cultural heritage and identity.
He called for a renaissance of traditional values through deliberate efforts in education, political engagement, and community mobilisation.
The Chairman of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Ondo State Branch, Yinka Akinola, described Fasoranti as an alumnus truly worth celebrating, stating that he is a man whose life embodies academic excellence, moral strength, and selfless service to society.
The Chief Host of the event, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, reflected on a time when external influences threatened to erode Yoruba values, saying it was leaders like Fasoranti who stood firm in defence of the culture and identity now being proudly upheld.
Similarly, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, represented by the institution’s Registrar, G.O. Saliu, extended the university’s deep appreciation to the nonagenarian, stressing that every society thrives on the strength of individuals like Fasoranti who embody its ideals and preserve its legacy.
The Chairman of the event, Prof. Williams Olu Aderounmu, praised the celebrant for his unwavering commitment to principled leadership and community development, adding that Chief Fasoranti is deserving of a Yoruba global award for his far-reaching contributions to the cultural and political advancement of the Yoruba people.
