Fasoranti: An Epitome of Modesty and Humility in Leadership – Sola Ebiseni
The Secretary-General of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Chief Sola Ebiseni, has described the organisation’s late National Leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, as an epitome of humility, modesty and selfless leadership.
Ebiseni made the remark while speaking with journalists at the Akure residence of the late elder statesman, where he reflected on Fasoranti’s exemplary life, political convictions and enduring contributions to leadership across generations.
Describing the late Afenifere leader as an accomplished educationist and a committed disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Ebiseni said Fasoranti was a mentor to generations of leaders and a quintessential servant leader whose life was defined by discipline, loyalty and dedication to others.
“Pa Fasoranti was an accomplished educationist of the highest degree, a loyal Awoist, mentor of leaders across generations, and a quintessential servant leader,” he said.
Recalling his personal relationship with the late elder statesman, Ebiseni highlighted Fasoranti’s commitment to maintaining close ties with his followers, regardless of his age and status.
He disclosed that barely a week before Fasoranti’s centenary birthday, the late leader personally called him to remind him to keep May 11 free for the celebration.
“Such was Baba’s dedication to his followers that a week to his centenarian birthday, he personally called me on phone to keep my diary open for the 11th May date. I am glad I did and interacted with him as usual,” Ebiseni recalled.
Reflecting on the lessons the younger generation could draw from Fasoranti’s life, the Afenifere secretary-general noted that it was rare to find individuals who attained such an advanced age, occupied positions of influence and remained humble, disciplined and unassuming.
According to him, Fasoranti’s life demonstrated that true leadership was not defined by the pursuit of power or personal recognition but by service, integrity and a willingness to put collective interests above individual ambition.
Ebiseni further recalled that the late leader was said to have relinquished the opportunity to become Governor of Ondo State, a position he was reportedly entitled to through Afenifere’s organisational hierarchy.
The decision, he suggested, underscored Fasoranti’s uncommon humility and his preference for principled service over the pursuit of political office.
Fasoranti’s legacy, as reflected in Ebiseni’s remarks, remains a powerful reminder to contemporary political leaders that enduring influence is built not merely on authority but also on character, personal discipline and genuine commitment to the people.
His life and leadership continue to offer lessons in selflessness, modesty and the responsibilities that accompany public service.