Senate wants Tinubu to honour Reuben Fasoranti with a renamed school

The Senate on Wednesday urged the federal government to honour the late Reuben Fasoranti, the former National Leader of Afenifere. He passed away last week at the age of 100.

The Senate suggested that an educational institution be renamed after Fasoranti. They want to recognise his efforts in improving education in South-west Nigeria.

Lawmakers agreed on this resolution after a motion by Adeniyi Adegbonmire, who represents Ondo Central in the APC, during their meeting.

Mr Fasoranti died last Tuesday. President Bola Tinubu, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and other governors in the South-west have expressed their sadness about his passing.

While moving the motion, Mr Adegbonmire, who is the chair of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, said Fasoranti's work in education greatly influenced his governance style. He focused on human welfare and humanitarian service.

The senator described Fasoranti as a loyal supporter of the late nationalist and politician, Obafemi Awolowo. Awolowo led the Action Group in the First Republic and later became part of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) in the Second Republic.

Adegbonmire also pointed out that Fasoranti was among the prominent Nigerians who fought against military rule. He worked hard to restore democratic governance in Nigeria.

“Pa Fasoranti remained committed to the struggle for democracy. He was a man who spoke truth to power, honest and upright. He saw the need to work with other socio-political groups like Arewa and Ohanaeze Ndigbo for a better Nigeria. He believed in one united, prosperous Nigeria and promoted this throughout his life,” said Adegbonmire.

The senator also asked his colleagues to set up a delegation. They would deliver the Senate's condolences to the people of Ondo State and Fasoranti's family.

Jide Ipinsagba, the senator for Ondo North, backed the motion. He called Fasoranti an advocate who greatly contributed to Nigeria’s educational growth and promoted peace in Yorubaland and across the nation.

The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who was in charge of the meeting, accepted the motion’s requests. He instructed senators to observe a minute’s silence in honour of the late elder statesman.