Rhe Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing his remarkable life as “a century of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering service to humanity.”
In a statement released on Monday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the revered monarch praised Pa Fasoranti for his enduring commitment to the progress of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large.
The Ooni, who also serves as the Permanent Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), said the centenarian’s life journey over the past century has been marked by exceptional integrity, selflessness, and uncommon dedication to justice, fairness, and good governance.
According to the monarch, attaining the age of 100 is not only a rare privilege but a powerful testament to a purposeful life devoted to the service of humanity and the pursuit of societal progress.
Oba Ogunwusi described Pa Fasoranti as one of Nigeria’s few surviving pillars of wisdom and moral leadership, whose steadfast voice has remained influential on critical matters concerning the Yoruba people and the nation as a whole.
“Pa Fasoranti represents a generation that believed in sacrifice, honour, and genuine love for the people. His life continues to remind us that true leadership is about service, integrity, and commitment to humanity,” the Ooni stated.
The royal father further praised the Afenifere leader as a fearless patriot who has consistently placed public service above personal interest, earning him widespread admiration and respect across political, cultural, and religious divides.
Beyond his notable contributions to politics and public life, the Ooni highlighted Pa Fasoranti’s humility, simplicity, and fatherly guidance, which have endeared him to many Nigerians across generations.
Describing him as a symbol of Yoruba unity and resilience, Oba Ogunwusi noted that Pa Fasoranti’s contributions to nation-building would remain indelible in history.
“As he celebrates 100 remarkable years on earth, we celebrate not just his age, but the values he has stood for throughout his lifetime. Baba has inspired generations with his wisdom, courage, and steadfastness,” the statement added.
The Ooni concluded by praying for continued strength, peace, and divine grace for the elder statesman, while urging younger Nigerians to emulate his virtues of honesty, discipline, patriotism, and selfless service.