Pa Reuben Fasoranti, former head of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere, voiced concern about the current status of Nigeria yesterday, noting that it is not the country he envisioned.
Fasoranti, who clocked 97 yesterday, in a chat with newsmen at his country home, in Akure, said he feels fulfilled.
His words: “I feel fulfilled at 97. I have seen it all; I’ve seen the worse and the best. I lost my wife and my daughter; she was shot dead but, generally, I have to thank God for everything.
“This is not the Nigeria of my dream. Things are getting worse. We only hope those we are leaving behind will try and do their best, because what we are seeing now is not good for the country at all.
“My expectations from the incoming government are many, but I want the government to give priority to unemployment and insecurity.
“People are not gainfully employed and it is getting worse every day. I hope the incoming government will try and look into it, and the security of the land.
“The incoming government should also look into the restructuring of the country, and I hope the new President will do it.”
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, his predecessor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and other Yoruba leaders described Fasoranti as a reference point for quality leadership.
Buhari hails Fasoranti at 97
President Buhari, who celebrated Pa Fasoranti on his 97th birthday, said he admired the courage, wisdom, resilience and visionary leadership that the nonagenarian continues to provide.
The President affirmed 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 noted 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, AG and Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN, and serving as Commissioner of Finance in Ondo State, 1979-1983.
As a patriot that has walked the streets leading protests and worked as a Principal in many schools, the President said he believes Pa Fasoranti’s strength comes from a deep fear of God, which is the measure of a good Christian, and love for humanity.