Fayemi Hails Afenifere Leader Chief Fasoranti as a “Towering Symbol of Integrity” at 100

News Update

Former Governor of Ekiti State and erstwhile Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has released a glowing tribute to the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday.

In a formal statement dated May 10, 2026, Dr. Fayemi described the centenarian as a “divine blessing” to the Nigerian nation and a moral compass for the Yoruba people. He emphasized that reaching the age of 100 is not just a personal milestone for the elder statesman but a significant event for the country’s democratic history.

Dr. Fayemi highlighted Chief Fasoranti’s century of life as a testament to sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to good governance. He noted that in moments of political uncertainty and national turbulence, the elder statesman remained one of those rare voices whose convictions never shifted with convenience. The tribute traced Fasoranti’s impact through several key eras, including his involvement in the Action Group during the First Republic, the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) during the Second Republic, and his “incomparable” tenure as the Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin.

Beyond politics, the former Governor praised Fasoranti’s enduring legacy in education. Having earned degrees from the University of Ibadan and post-graduate certifications from the University of Hull in the UK and Macquarie University in Australia, Fasoranti is credited with shaping generations of leaders as a teacher and administrator. Fayemi remarked that the Afenifere leader understood early on that the future of any society rests on the quality of its education and the moral character of its citizens.

The statement also touched on Fasoranti’s consistent advocacy for the restructuring of Nigeria. Fayemi described the leader’s vision of “true federalism” not as a mere political slogan, but as a necessary foundation for national stability and inclusive development.

Concluding his tribute, Dr. Fayemi, on behalf of his wife, Bisi, and his family, congratulated the centenarian, stating that in an era where values are increasingly contested, Chief Fasoranti’s life proves that true leadership is measured not by power or position, but by sacrifice, consistency, and fidelity to principle.

He noted that the nation celebrates a man whose life has enriched Nigeria’s democratic journey and strengthened the voice and aspirations of the Yoruba people.