Senate Urges FG To Name School After Late Afenifere Leader Fasoranti

The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to name an educational institution after the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, in recognition of his contributions to education, democracy, national unity and development.

The call followed a motion sponsored by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, who represents Ondo Central Senatorial District, during plenary on Wednesday.

Lawmakers paid tribute to the late elder statesman, describing him as a committed advocate of education, a defender of democracy and a prominent voice for national unity.

Leading the debate on the motion, Adegbonmire said Fasoranti’s background in education shaped his commitment to public service and his concern for the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

The senator recalled that the late Afenifere leader was a devoted follower of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and was associated with the Action Group during the First Republic and the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.

According to him, Fasoranti remained committed to democratic governance and was among those who opposed military rule and demanded a return to civilian administration in Nigeria.

Adegbonmire described the late politician as an honest and upright leader who was never afraid to speak the truth to those in positions of authority.

“Pa Fasoranti remained steadfast in the struggle for democracy. He was a man who spoke truth to power, honest and upright,” the senator said.

He further explained that Fasoranti believed strongly in a united and prosperous Nigeria and worked with other regional organisations to promote peaceful coexistence among the country’s diverse ethnic groups.

The lawmaker specifically recalled his engagement with groups such as Arewa and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, noting that the late elder statesman supported cooperation among Nigeria’s different regions.

“He believed in one united and prosperous Nigeria and promoted this all through his life,” Adegbonmire stated.

Beyond the call to name an educational institution after Fasoranti, the senator also urged the Senate to send a delegation to Ondo State to express its condolences to the people and the deceased’s family.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North Senatorial District, also praised Fasoranti for his contributions to education and his efforts to promote peace and harmony in Yorubaland and across Nigeria.

Ipinsagba described the late Afenifere leader as a strong supporter of education whose influence extended beyond his immediate community.

Following the contributions from senators, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, put the prayers of the motion to a vote.

The lawmakers unanimously approved the motion.