‘You’re an inspiration to progressives’ — Tinubu celebrates Fasoranti at 97

Bola Tinubu, president-elect, has congratulated Reuben Fasoranti, former leader of Afenifere, on his 97th birthday.

Fasoranti had supported Tinubu in the run-up to the last general election.

Ayo Adebanjo, the current Afenifere leader, supported Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP).

In a statement on Thursday, Tunde Rahman, media aide of Tinubu, quoted the president-elect as saying that Fasoranti is a light to his path.

The president-elect said Fasoranti left a “lasting legacy” at Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School where he was the founding principal, as well as Iwo Baptist High School, Olivet Baptist School, Oyo and Christ School Ado-Ekiti where he retired as a principal.

“On this special day that our father, Chief Reuben Fasoranti turns 97, we have nothing but gratitude to God for granting him long life and presence of mind,” he said.

“All of us in the progressive fold are inspired by the long years of unflinching dedication to public good by Baba. We are motivated to follow his examples because Baba Fasoranti is a light unto our paths.

“I particularly thank Baba for his support for me, his guidance and encouragement during the campaigns for the presidency of Nigeria. He gave me confidence and demonstrated total support.

“When I visited him in Akure after I won my party’s ticket, I told him to still stay long enough with us to see a great Nigeria that his generation worked hard and fought for. I made a pledge to Baba and all Nigerians that I will work day and night to fulfil the promise of a greater country.

“I remain resolutely committed to that promise, even as I’m delighted that Baba is still very much around with us. I join the children, entire family, friends, associates and Afenifere men and women to wish Baba a glorious 97th birthday.”