The Senate has asked the Federal Government to name an educational institution after the late Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti. The resolution was adopted on Wednesday, 28 October, following a motion by Adeniyi Adegbonmire, who represents Ondo Central.
The proposal recognises Fasoranti’s work in education alongside his contribution to democratic politics. It is a recommendation to the government, rather than an announcement that an institution has already been renamed. The reports of the debate did not identify a particular institution selected for the honour.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the sitting, approved the prayers of the motion. Senators also observed a minute’s silence and resolved to send a delegation to convey their condolences to Fasoranti’s family and the people of Ondo State.
Adegbonmire, chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, told colleagues that Fasoranti’s background as an educationist influenced his approach to public service. He linked that experience to the elder statesman’s concern for human welfare and humanitarian work.
Adegbonmire also cited Fasoranti’s establishment of Akure High School among his contributions to education.
The senator recalled Fasoranti’s association with Obafemi Awolowo and the political tradition represented by the Action Group and, subsequently, the Unity Party of Nigeria. He also described his opposition to military rule and his support for the restoration of democratic government.
Adegbonmire said Fasoranti encouraged cooperation between socio-political organisations, including Arewa and Ohanaeze Ndigbo. His remarks presented that engagement as part of the Afenifere leader’s commitment to a united Nigeria, alongside his advocacy for the Yoruba people.
Jide Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North, supported the motion. He recalled Fasoranti’s involvement in resolving disputes among young people, elders and other groups in Ondo State. The senator said communities had drawn on his experience and guidance over many years.
“His death is like a burnt library to all the people in the State because of the knowledge that we tapped from him,” Ipinsagba said, according to The Sun’s account of the proceedings.
Fasoranti died on 20 October, aged 100. The Senate’s decision follows the tributes issued after his death and adds a specific proposal for an educational memorial to those expressions of condolence.
In his statement of 20 October, President Bola Tinubu recalled Fasoranti’s career as an educationist and school principal, his service as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State and his subsequent leadership of Afenifere.
Tinubu also highlighted Fasoranti’s commitment to true federalism and social justice, and his participation in the struggle for democracy. The President’s tribute addressed the family, Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State government and Afenifere, reflecting the different institutions and communities associated with his public life.
The President recalled Fasoranti’s centenary on 11 May this year. He also referred to a visit to the elder statesman’s Akure residence in 2022, when he informed him of his intention to contest the presidency.
The parliamentary delegation and the proposed naming of an educational institution formed part of the resolutions adopted during Wednesday’s sitting. No implementation timetable for the naming proposal was announced in the accounts of the debate.
Photograph: Reuben Fasoranti, via The Sun. Photographer not identified.
