The South-West Caucus of the National Assembly has celebrated Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a courageous defender of Yoruba interests and a strong voice for justice, democracy and equitable governance in Nigeria.
The caucus, comprising federal lawmakers from the South-West geopolitical zone, also stated that the elder statesman’s long-standing vision for a truly restructured and efficient federation was gradually becoming a reality.
Chairman of the caucus and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, conveyed the lawmakers’ tribute in a statement issued on Sunday through his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs.
Bamidele described Fasoranti as one of the last surviving disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and praised his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution, particularly his role in the struggle that culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic.
According to him, the Afenifere leader exemplifies the Yoruba ideal of Omoluabi, characterised by honour, integrity, selflessness and exemplary leadership.
“Baba Fasoranti perfectly embodies the Yoruba values of Omoluabi — honour, integrity, leadership and selflessness,” Bamidele said.
He recalled that Fasoranti served meritoriously in the administration of the late Pa Adekunle Ajasin during the Second Republic and remained one of the most vocal critics of military dictatorship after the collapse of democratic rule.
“He was one of the loudest voices that fearlessly spoke against the reign of dictators after the Second Republic and consistently demanded the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria,” he stated.
The Senate Leader noted that even after the return to civil rule in 1999, Fasoranti had continued to provide guidance and mentorship to leaders at both national and sub-national levels while advocating fairness, justice and equity in governance.
Bamidele further said members of the National Assembly were conscious of the elder statesman’s desire for a more balanced and productive federal structure and were working towards reforms that would strengthen the federation.
“Not only us, the entire National Assembly is working to recraft the present federal governance structure to be more competitive, more efficient and more productive,” he said.
He disclosed that the ongoing constitutional amendment process includes plans to establish state police as part of measures aimed at addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
“Before the end of the 10th National Assembly, we are introducing state police as one of the measures to deal decisively with security challenges that plague our federation,” he added.
Bamidele also highlighted the establishment of regional development commissions as part of efforts to promote balanced development across the country and tackle infrastructure deficits.
He expressed optimism that Fasoranti would witness more reforms and people-oriented initiatives aimed at building a fair, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
“For attaining this age with sound mind and unfailing memory undoubtedly attests to God’s favour and mercy in the life of our widely cherished leader,” Bamidele stated.
