By David Oluwatosin
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the elder statesman and prominent leader of the Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, who died at the age of 100.
Tinubu, in a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, described Fasoranti as a symbol of integrity, discipline and selfless service whose contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, governance and socio-political development would remain indelible.
The President, on behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, extended condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government and people, the South-West region and the entire Afenifere family.
He described the late elder statesman as an icon and one of the prominent figures in the progressive political tradition associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti’s life, which spanned a century, reflected an enduring commitment to the Yoruba people, national unity, social justice and the advancement of Nigeria.
The President recalled the deceased’s contributions to education and public service, noting that he served as an educationist and principal before becoming Commissioner for Finance in the old Western Region.
He subsequently emerged as a leading figure in Afenifere, where he continued to advocate true federalism, social justice and a Nigeria that works for all citizens.
Tinubu also credited the late Afenifere leader with making significant contributions to the country’s democratic development, noting that he risked his life in the struggle for the democracy Nigerians enjoy today.
The President said the country would greatly miss Fasoranti’s wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, particularly at a time when the nation needed the guidance of experienced statesmen.
Tinubu further recalled celebrating the elder statesman’s 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, describing the milestone as a celebration of not just longevity but also a legacy of honour and service.
READ ALSO:Policing Bill: FG working group submits draft, 29 amendment bills for review
He also reflected on a personal encounter with Fasoranti in 2022, when he visited the elder statesman’s residence in Akure to inform him of his decision to contest the presidency.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti prayed for him and expressed confidence that he would become President during his lifetime, a wish the President said was fulfilled.
“I had hoped Papa would also be around with us for my second term to witness the full dawn of economic growth and prosperity in the land,” Tinubu said.
Despite the loss, the President expressed gratitude for the late statesman’s long life and service to the country, describing his years as a period of grace and fulfilment.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning his death.
Fasoranti’s passing marks the loss of a prominent figure in Nigeria’s progressive political tradition, whose public life spanned education, regional administration, political activism and leadership within Afenifere.
