The outgoing president, Muhammadu Buhari, has poured encomiums on the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, as he celebrates his 97th birthday.
In a statement made available to the newsmen by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, Buhari described Pa Fasoranti as a patriot, whose life’s journey and experience had conveyed the history of Nigeria, all through its various stages, including Independence.
The President, joined family, multitude of associates, including Afenifere, of the elder statesman, prayed for more grace of divine strength and health for him.
The statement read:”President Muhammadu Buhari joins 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.
“President Buhari affirms 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 notes 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.
In conclusion, the President prays for more grace of divine strength and health for the visionary leader.
