South-West Lawmakers Celebrate Afenifere Leader Fasoranti at 100

The South-West Caucus of the National Assembly has joined the nation in celebrating a towering figure of Nigerian politics and a staunch defender of Yoruba interests, elder statesman Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the auspicious occasion of his 100th birthday. The caucus, comprising federal lawmakers from the six South-West states, lauded Fasoranti as a leading voice in Nigeria’s democratic journey and a steadfast champion of federalism, whose vision for a recalibrated governance structure is gradually materializing through current legislative and constitutional reforms.

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Baba Fasoranti perfectly embodies the Yoruba values of Omoluabi – honour, integrity, leadership and selflessness. In the Second Republic for instance, he served without any dent, in the Government of Pa Adekunle Ajasin to deliver greater goods for the people of old Ondo State.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, speaking on behalf of the caucus, paid glowing tribute to Fasoranti, describing him as one of the last surviving disciples of the late nationalist and former Premier of the Western Region, Obafemi Awolowo. Bamidele highlighted Fasoranti's pivotal role in the fight against military dictatorship and his unwavering commitment to the restoration of democracy in Nigeria, culminating in the birth of the Fourth Republic in 1999. He emphasized that Fasoranti embodies the Yoruba values of 'Omoluabi'—honor, integrity, leadership, and selflessness—citing his unblemished service in the Second Republic government of Pa Adekunle Ajasin.

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He was also one of the loudest voices that fearlessly spoke against the reigns of dictators after the Second Republic and ceaselessly demanded the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria, an effort that culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic on the 29th May 1999.

Even after the return to democratic rule, Fasoranti's commitment to a fair, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria has never waned. He has continued to provide invaluable guidance and mentorship to leaders at various levels, remaining a prominent advocate for an equitable and just governance structure that serves the interests of all Nigerians. The lawmakers acknowledged his long-standing advocacy for restructuring and stronger federalism, noting that their efforts within the National Assembly to reshape the federal governance structure into a more competitive, efficient, and productive system are bearing fruit during his lifetime.

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Even after the restoration in 1999, Baba’s expectations for a greater, more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria have never quenched. Rather, he has been offering much-needed guidance and mentorship to different leaders at national and subnational levels.

This celebration is particularly significant from a South-West perspective. Afenifere, the socio-cultural organization Fasoranti leads, has historically been a powerful voice for the Yoruba people, advocating for their rights and interests within the Nigerian federation. Fasoranti's centenary is not just a personal milestone but a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of Yoruba leadership and its contribution to Nigeria's political landscape. His consistent advocacy for federalism resonates deeply within the region, which has often called for greater devolution of power. The lawmakers' tribute underscores the respect and admiration he commands, recognizing his enduring influence on contemporary Nigerian politics and governance.

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He has equally been a leading voice in the calls for an equitable, fair and just governance structure that will serve the interests of all.