Tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders and prominent Nigerians following the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the respected leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, who passed away at the age of 100.
Fasoranti’s death was announced on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who described the late elder statesman as a symbol of wisdom, integrity and selfless service.
The governor said Fasoranti devoted his life to the development of Ondo State, the Yoruba nation and Nigeria, adding that his guidance and principled positions on justice and good governance would be greatly missed.
He also extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, the people of Akure and the entire state over the loss.
Tinubu Pays Tribute to Late Afenifere Leader
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over Fasoranti’s death, describing him as one of the leading figures in the progressive political tradition associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
In his condolence message, Tinubu praised the centenarian’s commitment to integrity, discipline, social justice and national development.
The President also recalled Fasoranti’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that his courage and dedication to public service had left a lasting impression on the country.
Tinubu said Nigeria would miss the late statesman’s wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, particularly at a time when the nation needed experienced voices to guide its leadership.
Awolowo Family Says an Era Has Ended
Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, head of the Awolowo family, described Fasoranti’s death as the end of a remarkable era in Yoruba and Nigerian political history.
She said the late Afenifere leader belonged to a generation of politicians whose commitment to public service was shaped by strong convictions and loyalty to Awolowo’s political ideals.
According to her, Fasoranti remained committed to justice, equity, progressive governance and the advancement of ordinary Nigerians throughout his political journey.
She added that his passing had created a significant gap in the preservation of Afenifere’s founding principles and political heritage.
Olu Falae Speaks on Afenifere’s Future
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Afenifere leader, Olu Falae, also mourned Fasoranti, describing him as an exceptional individual whose humility and peaceful disposition distinguished him throughout his lifetime.
Falae, who said he had known the deceased for more than 60 years, recalled that he had rarely seen him quarrel with anyone or raise his voice during political meetings.
Addressing concerns about the future leadership of Afenifere following Fasoranti’s death, Falae expressed confidence that the organisation would produce a successor through its established tradition of peaceful leadership transition.
He maintained that the group had a system for ensuring continuity without unnecessary rivalry or a struggle for positions.
Governors Mourn the Elder Statesman
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described Fasoranti’s death as a monumental loss to the Yoruba people, praising his contributions to political development, unity and public service.
Similarly, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described the late Afenifere leader as a democratic icon whose life reflected patriotism and dedication to the advancement of Nigeria.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also mourned the centenarian, describing his death as the end of an era for the Yoruba nation and the country.
The governors extended their condolences to the Fasoranti family and members of Afenifere, while acknowledging the enduring influence of the late statesman.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Public Service
Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, present-day Ondo State, Fasoranti built a career as an educationist before becoming involved in public administration and progressive politics.
He worked in the education sector, established schools and later served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of Governor Michael Ajasin.
A committed follower of Awolowo’s political philosophy, he remained associated with the progressive political movement for decades before emerging as the leader of Afenifere.
His political journey included years of advocacy for democracy, social justice, accountable governance and true federalism.
Fasoranti celebrated his 100th birthday in May 2026, marking a century that spanned Nigeria’s colonial period, independence, military rule and the return to democratic governance.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum, with many describing him as a principled leader whose influence extended beyond Ondo State and the Yoruba nation.
As tributes continue, his legacy is expected to remain a significant part of discussions about progressive politics, democratic development and public service in Nigeria.
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