President Muhammadu Buhari has joined the Afenifere cultural group, friends and family in celebrating with Pa Reuben Fasoranti on his 97th birthday, admiring the courage, wisdom, resilience and visionary leadership that the nonagenarian continues to provide.
A statement issued on Thursday by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) said President Buhari affirmed that Pa Fasoranti’s personal profile conveys the remarkable history of Nigeria from Independence, with his participation in shaping political and economic developments in the first, second, third and fourth republic, and fearlessly advocating democratic rule under the military rule.
The President noted the overwhelming influence of the Afenifere leader in the South West, and across the country, preserving the legacies of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, after working side by side with him in building the Action Group and Unity Party of Nigeria, and serving as Commissioner of Finance in Ondo State, 1979-1983.
The statement said that as a patriot that has walked the streets leading protests and worked as Principal in many schools, the President believed Pa Fasoranti’s strength comes from a deep fear of God, which is the measure of good a Christian, and love for humanity.
He prayed for more grace of divine strength and health for the visionary leader.
READ ALSO FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE