The Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated Yoruba elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on his 100th birthday, describing him as an illustrious statesman and repository of Yoruba history, wisdom and cultural values.
Oyebanji, who delivered a goodwill message at a centenary birthday lecture organised in honour of Fasoranti at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, on Friday, said attaining 100 was a rare blessing, particularly for a man who had devoted his life to the service of humanity, democratic ideals and preservation of Yoruba cultural and political heritage.
Represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government,Professor Habibat Adubiaro, Governor Oyebanji said the people of Ekiti joined the leadership and members of Afenifere and the entire Yoruba race in celebrating the milestone.
He said Fasoranti belonged to a distinguished generation of Nigerian leaders whose commitment to public service was driven by the conviction that leadership must serve the common good rather than personal interests.
According to him, the elder statesman’s courage in standing firmly by his principles, intellectual contributions to national discourse and commitment to democratic governance have earned him the respect of generations.
Oyebanji described Fasoranti as more than an elder statesman to the Yoruba people, saying he had become a living repository of history, wisdom, experience and cultural memory.
He said the centenarian’s journey provided younger generations with an opportunity to understand the sacrifices that shaped Nigeria’s democratic heritage and reflect on the kind of society they should build.
The governor said Fasoranti’s life had demonstrated that true leadership transcended political office, adding that the most enduring legacy of a leader was not necessarily the position occupied, but the values upheld, lives touched and principles passed on to succeeding generations.
He urged contemporary leaders and younger generations to preserve and strengthen the democratic legacy nurtured by the older generation by promoting inclusive governance, strengthening democratic institutions, encouraging peaceful political engagement and prioritising the welfare of the people.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion and former Governor of Ogun, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, thanked God for the life of Fasoranti, describing the centenary celebration as a historic occasion that brought together Afenifere leaders and people from across the country.
Osoba also commended President Bola Tinubu for policies and programmes which, according to him, were aligned with the aspirations of Yoruba leaders.
He described Tinubu as a political offspring of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and said the Yoruba race would continue to thrive and remain an enduring force in Nigeria.
The keynote speaker, Bishop Ayo Ladigbolu, a prominent Afenifere leader, also eulogised Fasoranti for his exemplary character, leadership and commitment to Yoruba values.
Speaking on the theme, “A Century of Courage and Stewardship of Yoruba Democratic Legacy,” Ladigbolu described Fasoranti as a model of good character and an embodiment of the Omoluabi values for which the Yoruba are known.
He said the contributions of Fasoranti and other Yoruba leaders had helped preserve and strengthen the Yoruba heritage despite predictions that the legacy and values would not endure.
Ladigbolu referenced some of Fasoranti’s works, including The House of Oduduwa Must Not Fall, and urged the audience to protect the heritage and values handed down by the founding generation of Yoruba leaders.
He said true leadership should produce followers inspired to demonstrate the same virtues, principles and commitment as their leaders, adding that truth remained a fundamental ingredient for success in life.
The cleric called for a return to traditional Yoruba values of Omoluabi, stressing the importance of integrity, truth, character and responsibility in contemporary society.
Also speaking, the Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, appreciated Fasoranti for his contributions to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria.
Aiyedatiwa said the centenarian had contributed significantly to the growth of the country and deserved to be celebrated for his service and sacrifices.
President Tinubu was represented at the occasion by the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, while the Minister of Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, was also present as part of the Federal Government delegation.
Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s greetings to Fasoranti and expressed delight at the turnout of dignitaries and well-wishers.
He said the gathering demonstrated the respect and goodwill Fasoranti had earned throughout his lifetime, adding that the history of Nigeria could not be completely told without acknowledging his contributions.
The centennial birthday lecture attracted Afenifere leaders, serving and former governors, political leaders, traditional rulers, academics and other distinguished Nigerians who gathered to honour Fasoranti and celebrate his century-long journey of service and leadership.
The programme was sponsored by Brook Assets and Resources Ltd.
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