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We’re proud of you, Afenifere leader, Fasoranti eulogises Wole Soyinka at 92

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • Afenifere leader Chief Reuben Fasoranti praised Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday, calling him a "rare breed."
  • Fasoranti described Soyinka as a pride to the Yoruba race, Nigeria, and Africa, whose positive impact transcends boundaries.
  • The message highlighted Soyinka's active life and contributions as a writer, playwright, and human rights activist, praying for his long life and well-being.

Chief Reuben Fasoranti, the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere, has lauded Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, describing him as a "rare breed" and a source of immense pride on the occasion of his 92nd birthday.

a rare breed of whom any race would be proud of.

— Reuben FasorantiFasoranti described Soyinka in his congratulatory message.

In a congratulatory message issued by the organization's national publicity secretary, Jare Ajayi, Fasoranti celebrated Soyinka as "a pride to the Yoruba race, a pride of Nigeria, a pride of Africa, indeed, an individual whose positive impact defies ethnic or racial boundaries." He referred to Soyinka as one of the "brightly shining stars" any race could possess, expressing gratitude for his presence and positive influence on humanity.

Fasoranti noted that the celebration of Soyinka, also known as Kongi, is particularly significant given his remarkably active and impactful life. He thanked God for granting Soyinka the grace to reach the milestone of over 90 years with sustained vigor, both mentally and physically. The message conveyed prayers for Soyinka to live to 100 and beyond, enjoying good health and increasing joy, while hoping to see Nigeria become a country that everyone can be proud of within his lifetime.

A pride to the Yoruba race, a pride of Nigeria, a pride of Africa, indeed, an individual whose positive impact defies ethnic or racial boundaries.

— Reuben FasorantiFasoranti lauded Soyinka's broad influence.

Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, on July 13, 1934, Wole Soyinka was the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986. He has built a distinguished career as a playwright, essayist, novelist, poet, and human rights activist, consistently championing good governance and justice. Afenifere's message underscored Soyinka's enduring legacy and his continued role as an inspiration.

Prof Wole Soyinka is one of the brightly shining stars any race could have. We are grateful to the Almighty God that such a rare breed comes from among us and has been able to make positive impacts on the firmament of human existence.

— Reuben FasorantiFasoranti expressed gratitude for Soyinka's achievements and origin.
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Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.