Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Akure, Ondo State, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 100th birthday celebration of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, a veteran Yoruba leader and former chairman of the Afenifere socio-cultural group. Shettima landed at Akure Airport on Monday morning and was received by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, members of the state executive council, and other political figures. Fasoranti, a longtime advocate for federalism and regional autonomy, began his career as a teacher and later served in various administrative and political roles, earning recognition for his dedication to public service and national cohesion. The centenary event, held at the OndoVOVE auditorium, draws attendees from across Nigeria's political and traditional leadership spectrum. In addition to the birthday tribute, Shettima is scheduled to commission the newly constructed Onyearugbulem/Shagari/Irese flyover, a project undertaken by the Ondo State Government to ease traffic congestion in the state capital. The bridge forms part of broader infrastructure improvements in Akure, according to state officials. Fasoranti, a disciple of the late Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, remains a respected voice in Yoruba socio-political discourse, particularly on issues of justice and equitable development. The celebration includes tributes from national leaders and cultural performances honouring Fasoranti's life and legacy.
Shettima's presence at Fasoranti's birthday underscores the administration's effort to align with traditional and regional figures who champion federalism, even as current policies centralise fiscal control. Fasoranti once opposed unitary tendencies in governance, a stance that contrasts with the federal government's recent resistance to revenue-sharing reforms. The commissioning of a flyover during a centenary event blurs infrastructure delivery with political symbolism, raising questions about timing and priority. If public works must coincide with ceremonial events, it suggests projects are scheduled for visibility rather than need.
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