National Assembly South-West Caucus Celebrates Pa Fasoranti at 100

The South-West Caucus of the National Assembly has celebrated the patriarch of Yorubaland, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday anniversary, describing him as a courageous defender of Yoruba interests and one of the last surviving disciples of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Leader of the Senate and Chairman of the South-West Caucus in the National Assembly, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, CON, ahead of Pa Fasoranti’s centenary celebration scheduled for Monday, May 11, 2026.

The caucus thanked God Almighty for granting Pa Fasoranti long life, sound health, clarity of mind and unwavering memory as he joins the league of centenarians with honour, grace and dignity.

According to the lawmakers, attaining such a milestone in good health reflects God’s immense favour and mercy upon the elder statesman, who has remained steadfast in his commitment to the progress, peace and prosperity of Nigeria through different phases of the nation’s history.

The statement noted that Pa Fasoranti embodies the Yoruba values of Omoluabi, including integrity, honour, leadership and selflessness, adding that his record in public service remains exemplary.
It recalled that during the Second Republic, he served diligently in the administration of the late Pa Adekunle Ajasin in old Ondo State, contributing meaningfully to the development of the people.

The lawmakers further stated that Pa Fasoranti was among the outspoken voices that resisted military dictatorship after the collapse of the Second Republic, persistently advocating for the restoration of democratic governance, a struggle that eventually led to the birth of the Fourth Republic on May 29, 1999.

According to the caucus, even after the return to democratic rule, Pa Fasoranti has continued to provide guidance, mentorship and direction to leaders at both national and subnational levels while championing the cause of equitable, fair and just governance in Nigeria.

The South-West lawmakers also acknowledged his long-standing desire for a restructured and productive federation that would guarantee peace, competitiveness and development across the country.

They stated that the National Assembly is currently working towards reforms aimed at strengthening the federal structure and making governance more productive and efficient.
The caucus highlighted some achievements already recorded, including the devolution of powers in the electricity sector, enabling subnational governments to generate, distribute and transmit electricity independently.

It also noted similar reforms in the railway sector, saying state governments now have greater opportunities to attract local and foreign investments into their territories.
The lawmakers further pointed to the establishment of regional development commissions across the geo-political zones as part of efforts to address infrastructure deficits and promote balanced national development.

They added that plans were underway to introduce state police through the ongoing constitutional amendment process as part of measures to address the country’s security challenges.
According to the statement, the National Assembly is optimistic that the proposed state police initiative and other reforms aimed at creating a more effective fiscal regime would become reality during Pa Fasoranti’s lifetime.
The caucus pledged continued commitment to pro-people policies and initiatives that would advance the vision of an equitable, fair and prosperous Nigeria, which Pa Fasoranti has consistently advocated.

The lawmakers concluded by wishing the elder statesman a happy centenary anniversary and praying for more years in good health and fulfilment.