Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, has described the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti’s record in public finance as a benchmark for prudence, accountability and ethical leadership.
Oyedele made this known in a tribute to the elder statesman, who died at the age of 100.
He recalled Fasoranti’s tenure as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of the late Governor Michael Ajasin, describing his stewardship as an enduring lesson for those responsible for managing public resources.
“For those of us in economic management, his record as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under Chief Michael Ajasin remains a clear benchmark of prudence, accountability, and ethical stewardship,” the minister said.
Oyedele, who described himself as a proud son of Ondo State, said Fasoranti’s death was a loss to the state and the nation, given his decades of public service and commitment to principled leadership.
READ ALSO: Nigeria’s Economic Reforms Offer Lessons for Africa – Oyedele
He stressed that the most meaningful way to honour the late elder statesman’s legacy was for public officials to uphold the values of discipline, fairness and service to the common good.
“The finest tribute to his century of service is to lead with the discipline, fairness, and commitment to the public good that he demonstrated throughout his life,” he said.
The minister extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the Afenifere community and the people of Ondo State, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased.
Pa Fasoranti was a prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, and served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983.
He was also known for his involvement in the pro-democracy struggle and his association with the progressive political tradition of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.