Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti said his 100 years on earth have not been without pain, as he marked his centenary on Monday.
The elder statesman said the loss of his wife, Oladiwura, and two daughters still weighs on him, but his faith in God has kept him going.
“I am here today not by my power, but by the grace of the Almighty who has kept me to see 100 years on earth. To Him alone be all the glory,” he said in an emotional speech.
Fasoranti thanked President Bola Tinubu, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Deji of Akure Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, Afenifere leaders, family, students, and well-wishers who came to honour him.
“100 years is a long journey. I have seen colonial rule, independence, war and peace, military and democracy. Through it all, one thing has sustained me: the fear of God, hard work, and service to others,” he said.
He spoke of personal loss with quiet resolve.
“I have buried my beloved wife, Oladiwura, and lost two of my daughters. The weight of those losses is heavy, and there are days the sorrow feels fresh. But in all of it, I have held on to God. He has been my strength, my comfort, and my anchor.”
He said his greatest joy was moulding students of character as a teacher and principal.
“When gold rusts, what will iron do? If we who lead have no integrity, what do we expect from those who follow? I am proud of the men and women my schools produced.”
In politics, he said he chose service over gain.
“Afenifere taught me that leadership is sacrifice. I held office without bitterness, and I leave with clean hands. That is the example I want the younger generation to follow.”
He urged unity within Afenifere and across Nigeria.
“At this moment in our history, my heart’s desire is that Afenifere remains one. A house divided cannot stand. Let us put aside differences, forgive one another, and speak with one voice for our people.”
To his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he said: “You are my crowns. Be truthful, be content, be kind to all.”
He implored Nigerians to return to values of discipline, honesty, and love across tribe and tongue.
“Nigeria will be great if we put service above self. My prayer at 100 is simple: peace in our land, good leaders, peace for my family, and to meet my Creator in peace with a clear conscience,” he added.