President Bola Tinubu and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa have mourned the death of the National Leader of Afenifere, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100.
Tinubu described the late Yoruba leader as “an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family,” saying his century-long life exemplified integrity, discipline, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Aiyedatiwa, who announced Fasoranti’s death in a statement on Tuesday, also described him as a patriarch and a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service who remained committed to the peace and development of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
In his statement, the governor said he received the news with a heavy heart but submitted to the will of God.
“With a heavy heart but with total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing of our revered elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who departed this world at the glorious age of 100,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa noted that the late elder statesman’s counsel, fatherly guidance and principled stance on justice and good governance would be sorely missed.
He added that Fasoranti lived a fulfilled life and left a legacy that would endure for generations.
On behalf of the Ondo State Government and its people, the governor extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of the state. He also prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul.
In his tribute, Tinubu, in a statement personally signed on Tuesday, said he received the news of Fasoranti’s death with “profound sadness”.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, I commiserate with the Fasoranti family, the good people of Akure Kingdom, the government and people of Ondo State and South-West Nigeria, and the entire Afenifere family,” the President said.
Tinubu recalled Fasoranti’s contributions to education, public service and the struggle for democracy, noting that he served as an educationist and principal before becoming Commissioner for Finance in the old Western Region and later leading Afenifere.
“From his days as an educationist and principal, to his stewardship as Commissioner for Finance in the old Western Region, and later as the leader of Afenifere, Baba never wavered in his belief in true federalism, social justice, and a Nigeria that works for all,” he said.
The President added that Fasoranti made immense contributions to the country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy Nigerians enjoy today.
He said the late Afenifere leader distinguished himself through his Spartan lifestyle, adherence to principles and commitment to noble causes.
“Our nation will sorely miss his voice of wisdom, moral authority, and fatherly counsel, especially now, when we need his guidance most,” Tinubu said.
The President also recalled Fasoranti’s centenary celebration on May 11, saying the milestone represented not only a remarkable lifespan but also a legacy of honour and service.
“He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints in the sands of time,” he said.
Tinubu further recalled visiting Fasoranti at his residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of his decision to contest the presidency.
“Pa Fasoranti told me I would be President in his lifetime, and God answered his prayer,” he said.
The President said he had hoped the elder statesman would live to witness his second term in office and the anticipated economic growth and prosperity.
“But we must thank God for Pa Fasoranti’s long life of service, grace and fulfilment,” he added.
Tinubu prayed for the repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning his death.
