Pa Reuben Fasoranti: The Political Socrates and Devout Pan-Yoruba Elder Statesman at 100, Barr. Kayode Taiwo Samson LLM Writes Glowing Tribute

Pa Reuben Fasoranti: The Political Socrates and Devout Pan-Yoruba Elder Statesman at 100, Barr. Kayode Taiwo Samson LLM Writes Glowing Tribute

Today, we raise our voices in heartfelt celebration of a man whose life remains a shining beacon of wisdom, courage, service, and unwavering dedication to humanity — Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the revered centenarian, educationist par excellence, political coach, mentor, and living torchbearer of progressive Yoruba politics.

A highly respected statesman, Baba Fasoranti stands tall in the annals of Nigerian history as a legend, a colossus, and an enduring symbol of democratic resilience. As a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), leader of Afenifere, seasoned educationist, community builder, and nationalist, he has etched indelible footprints on the political landscape of Nigeria and in the hearts of countless individuals privileged to encounter his fatherly guidance.

Within his local community and beyond, Baba is more than a political leader; he is a father, mentor, pathfinder, and custodian of values. Endowed with rare wisdom and uncommon discernment, he possesses an exceptional ability to identify people’s cognitive, psychomotor, and affective capacities, nurturing them toward greatness. To many of us, Baba remains our own “Political Westerhof,” gifted in discovering talents early and grooming them with patience, discipline, and love.

Personally, I owe Baba an immeasurable debt of gratitude. His support during my political journey, particularly in 1999 when I contested as the Alliance for Democracy candidate for Councillor in Lisa Ward 5, was monumental. Alongside the late Chief Fatoyinbo and my political leader, the late Segun Omotosho, Baba personally led campaigns on my behalf, laying a solid foundation for my public service and political growth.

At a critical moment during a period of political turbulence in Akure South, Baba summoned me and advised me to return to school to study Law. That divine instruction changed the course of my life forever. With the encouragement and support of eminent personalities such as Hon. Justice Bode Adegbehingbe (JCA) and Prof. Leke Oke of the Political Science Department, Ekiti State University, I embraced the challenge, and the outcome remains transformational.

Despite his towering influence and national stature, Baba Fasoranti has always remained remarkably humble. He visits his political sons and followers personally, checks on their welfare, encourages self-reliance, and never seeks to enslave anyone politically. His leadership philosophy has never been built on intimidation or control, but rather on empowerment, mentorship, and principled guidance.

Like the biblical Simeon in the Temple of Jerusalem, Baba Fasoranti has lived to witness remarkable moments in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. God granted him the grace to see the enthronement of a progressive President in Nigeria. Before the presidential election, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Baba to seek fatherly blessings and prayers, and history today bears witness to the manifestation of those prayers with the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Indeed, Baba Fasoranti can rightly be described as “the just and devout elder statesman” of our time. Like Simeon in Luke 2:25–35, whose life was marked by divine purpose, patience, and fulfillment, Baba’s life reflects steadfast conviction, moral discipline, and dedication to the service of humanity. He remains deeply committed to mentorship rather than materialism, nurturing future generations and instilling in them the principles of integrity, loyalty, courage, and ethical leadership.

Baba detests political double standards and remains uncompromising in his beliefs about truth, justice, and the proper way to live. His political ideology is firmly rooted in loyalty, discipline, meritocracy, and progressive ideals. He believes strongly in rewarding competence and has consistently demonstrated sharp and eagle-eyed judgment in identifying credible leaders. He is also a passionate advocate of women’s participation in politics and governance.

His rules of engagement in politics are built on sincerity and loyalty. Baba believes that anyone working under his leadership must remain principled and steadfast. He abhors political betrayal and opportunism, insisting that politics must be practiced with honour, integrity, and ideological consistency.

Today, we celebrate not only the birthday of a great elder statesman, but also the enduring legacy of a man deservedly referred to as the “Political Socrates” and “Political Aristotle” of our generation — a man whose life continues to inspire countless Nigerians across political, educational, and social spheres.

Baba, I sincerely thank you for your mentorship, guidance, and invaluable lessons on the principles and ethics of politics. Your contributions to the progressive movement in the late 1990s, particularly during the Alliance for Democracy campaigns and elections of 1998 and 1999, remain indelible chapters in our political history.

As you celebrate this remarkable milestone, may the grace of Almighty God continue to abide with you. May your wisdom never diminish, may your strength be continually renewed, and may you continue to witness greater progress and prosperity in Nigeria.

Happy Birthday once again, Baba Reuben Fasoranti. May your celebration be lavish, joyous, sumptuous, and abundantly blessed. Many happy returns in good health, peace, and divine favour.

Signed:

Hon. Barr. Kayode Taiwo Samson, LLM

Chairman, Akure East LCDA, Oda