Ebiseni: Fasoranti Shunned Governorship, Embodied Humility in Leadership
The Secretary-General of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Sola Ebiseni, has described the late Chief Reuben Fasoranti as a rare leader whose humility, personal discipline and commitment to service distinguished him throughout his lifetime.
Ebiseni made the remarks while speaking with journalists at the Akure residence of the late Afenifere national leader, where he paid tribute to the elder statesman.
He described Fasoranti as an accomplished educationist, a loyal follower of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a mentor to leaders across generations and a quintessential servant leader.
According to Ebiseni, the late Afenifere leader demonstrated exceptional dedication to his followers, even as he approached his 100th birthday.
He recalled that about a week before Fasoranti’s centenary birthday, the elder statesman personally called him to ensure that he kept May 11 free for the occasion.
“Such was Baba’s dedication to his followers that a week to his centenarian birthday, he personally called me on the phone to keep my diary open for the May 11 date. I am glad I did and interacted with him as usual,” Ebiseni said.
Reflecting on the lessons younger generations could learn from the late leader’s life, Ebiseni noted that it was rare for an individual to attain such an advanced age, occupy a prominent leadership position and still remain unassuming and committed to personal discipline.
He further recalled that Fasoranti reportedly declined the opportunity to become governor of Ondo State, a position Ebiseni said he was entitled to by virtue of Afenifere’s organisational hierarchy.
Ebiseni’s tribute highlighted the late elder statesman’s humility, self-restraint and dedication to leadership, describing his life as a lesson in service and personal discipline for present and future generations.
Clarify the governorship claim
