Cover
BREAKING: Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Is Dead
Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the prominent Yoruba elder statesman and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, is dead.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, announced the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the revered leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, at the age of 100.
The governor announced Fasoranti’s death on Tuesday in a statement personally signed by him in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
Aiyedatiwa described the late elder statesman as a revered patriarch whose life was defined by wisdom, integrity and selfless service to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
In the statement, the governor expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the centenarian, while acknowledging his contributions to the development of the state and the country.
“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,” the statement read.
The governor added: “Pa Fasoranti was a patriarch, a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service whose century-long life was marked by uncommon commitment to the development of our dear State, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.”
Fasoranti was one of the prominent figures in Yoruba political and social affairs, earning recognition for his longstanding involvement in Nigeria’s democratic struggle and advocacy for good governance.
A former educationist and political associate of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he devoted decades to public service and political engagement, particularly in the promotion of democratic values and the interests of the Yoruba people.
His leadership of Afenifere placed him at the centre of discussions on Nigeria’s political structure, national unity, constitutional reform and the future of the country’s federal system.
Over the years, Fasoranti became a respected voice in national political discourse, with his interventions reflecting his longstanding commitment to democratic governance and the political ideals associated with the Awolowo tradition.
His death marks the end of an era for Afenifere and the loss of a prominent elder statesman whose influence spanned generations of political leadership in Nigeria.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements and other commemorative activities are expected to emerge from the family and relevant authorities.
