The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao has described the Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti has a pride of Yoruba race.
The traditional ruler said this in a statement made available to newsmen, on Thursday, to mark the 97th birthday of the Afenifere leader.
Olugbon, who is the Deputy Chairman, Oyo state council of Obas and Chiefs said Pa Fasoranti has invested himself in ideas, activities geared towards the progress and well-being of the Yoruba nation.
He added that Pa Fasoranti has proved, over decades, that true leadership is possible adding that he remains the Afenifere Leader with candour and pedigree.
The statement reads: “I join millions of Yoruba sons and daughters and lovers of Nigeria in congratulating the Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as he attains the age of 97 years on Thursday May11, 2023.
“As a Nigerian, Pa Fasoranti contributed his own quota to the development of the country through political, governance and community leadership. As a Yoruba leader, he invested himself in ideas and activities geared towards the progress and well-being of the Yoruba nation.
“Pa Fasoranti has remained constant in promoting democratic ideals, and sustaining the Omoluabi ethos as he leads by example in grooming new generation of national and community leaders.
“He has proved, over decades, that true leadership is possible; and that true leaders are servants to those they lead because national and community interest is the priority in all considerations.
“For example, Pa Fasoranti turned down the offer of Ondo State governorship ticket by the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD) in 1998, saying he needed to attend to his children being a widower.
“Fasoranti is in the ilk of men and women who attain greatness through selflessness, commitment to nation building and unparalleled love for community development.
“He is the current Afenifere Leader with candour and pedigree.
“On this occasion of your 97th birthday, I pray God to be more gracious to you, and grant you longer life in sound and perfect health.
“Happy 97th birthday to an outstanding Yoruba son and generational leader.”
