Unemployment, insecurity still major concerns — Afenifere leader, Pa Fasoranti

Reuben Fasoranti, the leader of the Pan-Yourba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has said Nigeria is still plagued with the mirage of problems hindering her development as the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari hands over power to a new government by May 29. He particularly lamented the high level of insecurity, unemployment and economic downturn in the country, […]

Reuben Fasoranti, the leader of the Pan-Yourba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has said Nigeria is still plagued with the mirage of problems hindering her development as the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari hands over power to a new government by May 29.

He particularly lamented the high level of insecurity, unemployment and economic downturn in the country, noting that things had already gone worse.

The Afenifere leader spoke on Thursday at his country home of Akure, the Ondo State capital, while interacting with journalists to mark the celebration of his 97th birthday.

He revealed that he had dreamt of a prosperous Nigeria, considering the natural resources abound in the country but had yet to see any meaningful development.

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The elder statesman, who lost his daughter, Mrs Funke Olakunrin, in a terrorist attack on July 12, 2019, said he had experienced a bitter taste of life in his journey on earth.

“But I want the government to give priority to unemployment. People are not gainfully employed and things are getting worse every day. I hope the government would try and look into it and the security of the land. This is not the Nigeria of my dream, No!

Fasoranti, however, advised the incoming administration to ensure the restructuring of the country and ensured the welfare of the people is made a priority.

Earlier, the former governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko, described the nonagenarian as a nationalist and community leader who has a passion for the development of the country.

Speaking, the National Organising Secretary of the apex Yoruba group, Mr Kole Omololu, saluted the courage of the Afenifere leader whom he noted always spoke truth to power.

Omololu said his closeness to Pa Fasoranti has further taught him the benefits of being humble, especially within one’s community.