The President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has rained accolades on the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, as he celebrates his 97th birthday.
Tinubu who particularly lauded Fasanti’s commitment to the ideals of good governance, noted that it has paved way for progressive politics.
The President-elect’s tribute is contained in the congratulatory message issued in Abuja by his media officer, Tunde Rahman.
The former Lagos State governor further praised Fasoranti for his exemplary life of courage and public service as a teacher, school principal, local government chairman, administrator, commissioner for Finance and an astute politician.
He also recalled the various roles the elder statesman played in Nigerian politics, especially the South-west, from his student days at the University College in Ibadan where he was an active member of Action Group and one of the trusted allies of the late Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and first civilian governor of old Ondo State, Chief Adekunle Ajasin.
Tinubu noted in particular that Fasoranti established his lasting legacy in the educational sector where he made invaluable impacts on many of his former students and generations of students at Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School where he was the founding Principal, Iwo Baptist High School, Olivet Baptist School, Oyo and Christ School Ado-Ekiti where he retired as a Principal.
As a school administrator, he founded a private school with his wife, Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School that changed the landscape of education in Ondo State after his retirement.
He said, “On this special day that our father, Chief Reuben Fasoranti turns 97, we have nothing but gratitude to God for granting him long life and presence of mind.
“All of us in the progressive fold are inspired by the long years of unflinching dedication to public good by Baba. We are motivated to follow his examples because Baba Fasoranti is a light unto our paths.
“I particularly thank Baba for his support for me, his guidance and encouragement during the campaigns for the presidency of Nigeria. He gave me confidence and demonstrated total support. When I visited him in Akure after I won my party’s ticket, I told him to still stay long enough with us to see a great Nigeria that his generation worked hard and fought for. I made a pledge to Baba and all Nigerians that I will work day and night to fulfill the promise of a greater country.
“I remain resolutely committed to that promise, even as I’m delighted that Baba is still very much around with us. I join the children, entire family, friends, associates and Afenifere men and women to wish Baba a glorious 97th birthday,” the President-elect remarked.
