President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a symbol of integrity, principled leadership and unwavering commitment to democracy and national development.

In a personally signed tribute issued on Sunday, Tinubu celebrated the centenarian for what he called an uncommon life of service, sacrifice and steadfast devotion to noble causes.

The President said his “joy knows no bounds” as the nation witnesses the attainment of the landmark age by the elder statesman, pro-democracy activist and foremost Yoruba leader.

According to Tinubu, Fasoranti’s life embodies discipline, honesty, dedicated service and moral leadership.

“Baba Fasoranti deserves all the encomiums that will come his way on this occasion for his uncommon life of service and immense contributions to this country,” the President stated.

He praised the Afenifere leader’s lifelong commitment to education, recalling his academic accomplishments at the University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, the University of Hull in the United Kingdom, and Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.

Tinubu also highlighted Fasoranti’s enduring footprints in the education sector through his years as a teacher and founder of notable schools in Ondo State, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy, Igoba, Akure.

The President, however, noted that the elder statesman’s greatest impact came through politics, public service and democratic activism.

Describing Fasoranti as one of the last surviving disciples of late nationalist Chief Obafemi Awolowo, President Tinubu said the Afenifere leader remained steadfast in promoting the Yoruba ethos of Omoluabi, anchored on discipline, integrity and good conduct.

He recalled Fasoranti’s political involvement in the defunct Action Group during the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), where he served as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin.

According to the President, Fasoranti’s integrity and prudence played a critical role in the management of the state’s finances during the period.

Tinubu further praised the elder statesman’s role in the struggle against military dictatorship, noting that his voice became one of the strongest rallying points for democracy and Yoruba unity during years of military rule.

“Pa Fasoranti’s voice became one of the rallying voices against military dictatorship, demanding the return of democracy to the land,” Tinubu said.

He added that after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya, Fasoranti emerged as the recognised and respected leader of Afenifere, maintaining the unity and relevance of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation.

The President also recalled the assassination attempt on Fasoranti during the regime of late General Sani Abacha, saying the elder statesman emerged from the ordeal stronger and even more resolute in resisting oppression and authoritarianism.

Tinubu acknowledged the personal tragedies Fasoranti endured over the years, including the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in July 2019.

Despite the painful losses, the President said the elder statesman remained resilient and steadfast.