Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State and Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, has congratulated Reuben Fasoranti on his 100th birthday. Fasoranti, leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, will turn 100 on Monday, May 11. Sanwo-Olu described him as a committed and respected elder statesman, and a trusted disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
The governor praised Fasoranti's contributions to education, leadership, and public service, calling his impact indelible. He highlighted the centenarian's lifelong advocacy for truth, equity, justice, true federalism, and good governance. Sanwo-Olu noted that Fasoranti has steered Afenifere with integrity and purpose over the years.
In a message issued Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu extended greetings on behalf of his family, the Lagos State government, its people, and his fellow South-West governors. He said the region takes pride in celebrating Fasoranti, not only for reaching 100 in good health and mental clarity but for his enduring role in shaping Yoruba and national development.
Sanwo-Olu prayed that Fasoranti continues to receive divine blessings of health, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in his old age. He reaffirmed the people's respect and appreciation for Fasoranti's decades of leadership within Afenifere.
Sanwo-Olu celebrates Fasoranti's lifelong fight for true federalism while governing a system that centralises power. Fasoranti's ideals of equity and justice remain unmet in the current structure Sanwo-Olu operates within. Lagos residents see no shift toward the federalism Fasoranti championed, despite the governor's praise. Honouring a critic's legacy without acting on it risks reducing tribute to ritual.
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