…say ethnic stock must protect its core values

*Encomiums pour in torrents, as Afenifere Leader approaches centenary age

By Kemi Olatunde & Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called for a revitalization of Yoruba cultural values, stressing the need for a united approach towards preserving the race’s rich traditions and history.

Aiyedatiwa made the remarks during a public lecture held in honour of Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the distinguished leader of the Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, on the occasion of his 99th birthday in Akure on Saturday.

The event, the second edition of the Chief Reuben Fasoranti Public Service Lecture, was organized by the University of Ibadan Alumni Association, Ondo State Chapter, held at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) Auditorium.

Aiyedatiwa, in his address, described Fasoranti, a respected leader of the Afenifere group, as a symbol of integrity, patriotism and selflessness.

He extolled the nonagenarian for his decades of service to Nigeria, which have left an indelible mark on both the political and cultural landscape of the country.

The governor said, “Chief Fasoranti’s life represents the ideal of the Yoruba Omoluabi, a person of integrity, courage and devotion to the greater good.”

“What we celebrate today is not just his age, but his extraordinary contributions to the development of our nation, his steadfast leadership and his embodiment of Yoruba values.”

The governor also highlighted the critical need to address the gradual erosion of Yoruba culture and the values that have long defined the race.

He described the theme of the lecture, “Wanted: A Strong and United Yoruba Race as Panacea for Reviving the Vanishing Yoruba Values and Culture,” as a timely reminder of the challenges facing the Yoruba people in preserving their identity.

“We must not allow the richness of our culture to fade away,” Aiyedatiwa urged. “Our traditions, our customs and our values must remain the foundation upon which we build a prosperous future. As leaders, we must actively teach and promote these values, especially to the younger generations.”

In a clarion call for intergenerational dialogue, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the role of the youth in this cultural revival.

He encouraged the government and communities to engage in educating young people about the importance of Yoruba culture, history and values, while also emphasizing the role of traditional festivals and practices in keeping the culture alive.

“In Ondo State, we are committed to ensuring that our cultural heritage is passed down to the next generation,” he added.

“We are providing opportunities for the youth to actively participate in the promotion of our rich cultural heritage, as well as encouraging them to contribute to the revival of Yoruba traditions.”

During the event, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former governor of Ogun State and current senator, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the ethical and cultural foundations of the Yoruba people.

He discussed the concept of Omoluabi, a term representing the ethical framework of Yoruba society that emphasizes honesty, integrity and respect for community.

Daniel noted that Nigeria’s socio-political challenges stemmed from a decline in these values, urging a return to the principles embodied in Omoluabi to help address the country’s moral and ethical crises.

“Omoluabi is more than a cultural term; it is a comprehensive moral compass that guides us toward building a strong, united nation,” Daniel explained. “To restore Nigeria’s dignity, we must return to these core values.”

Daniel also spoke of Afenifere’s ongoing role in shaping Yoruba and Nigerian politics, stressing the importance of collaboration between like-minded groups across the country to foster national unity.

The event’s chairman, Professor Williams Aderounmu, praised Fasoranti for his unwavering leadership and service to the Yoruba people, stating that he was a deserving recipient of a global recognition for his contributions to cultural and political advancement.

The chief host of the event, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the Yoruba identity amid increasing external influences.

He highlighted the importance of safeguarding the Yoruba identity amid increasing external influences, calling on alumni of higher institutions to brainstorm and proffer solutions to the challenges confronting the Yoruba race.

Basorun Arogbofa urged Yoruba leaders to continue the struggle for cultural preservation and to unite in efforts to address the challenges facing the race.

Representatives from various institutions, including the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan and the Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, all paid tribute to Fasoranti, recognizing his role in shaping the cultural and educational landscape of the Yoruba people.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Ondo State Branch, Mr. Yinka Akinola, described Chief Fasoranti as an alumnus truly worth celebrating, a man whose life embodies academic excellence, moral strength and selfless service to society.

He emphasized Fasoranti’s immense contributions to Yoruba culture and Nigeria at large.

Chief host of the event, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, reflected on a time when external influences threatened to erode Yoruba values, saying it was leaders like Fasoranti who stood firm in defense of the culture and identity now being proudly upheld.

He called on alumni of higher institutions to brainstorm and proffer solutions to the challenges confronting the Yoruba race.

Similarly, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, represented by the institution’s Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Saliu, extended the university’s deep appreciation to the nonagenarian, stressing that every society thrives on the strength of individuals like Fasoranti who embody its ideals and preserve its legacy.

Chairman of the event, Prof. Williams Aderounmu, praised the celebrant for his unwavering commitment to principled leadership and community development, adding that Chief Fasoranti is deserving of a Yoruba global award for his far-reaching contributions to the cultural and political advancement of the Yoruba people.

He called on all to unite behind him, saying, “He has remained a committed leader of the Yoruba race worldwide.”

Also speaking, the Royal Father of the Day, Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers and Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, noted Chief Fasoranti’s long-standing relationship with the people of Owo, particularly through his close working ties with the late former Governor of Ondo State, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, in whose cabinet he served as Commissioner for Finance. He lauded the celebrant for helping to preserve the identity of the Yoruba race and urged others to follow in his footsteps and make him proud.

“The lecture cannot do justice to the personality of this living legend,” Oba Ogunoye said, calling on all to strive toward preserving the Yoruba race.

In his goodwill message, the Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described Fasoranti as a nation builder, a teacher of teachers and a father figure whose influence continues to shape generations of leaders across the Southwest and beyond.

According to him, Fasoranti has lived a legacy of educational excellence, with leadership rooted in ideology and service.

The event featured the unveiling of the architectural prototype for the Pa Fasoranti/Ondo UIAA multipurpose building, alongside a fundraising initiative to support the project. In addition, awards were presented to prominent individuals for their contributions to Yoruba culture and society.

Distinguished figures such as former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Rahman Mimiko, Chief of Staff to Governor Aiyedatiwa, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Bishop of Akure Anglican Communion, Bishop Simeon Borokini, Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade, members of the state executive council, Chairmen of Local Government and members of the UI alumni, Ondo State branch, among others, were present to grace the occasion.