President Bola Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, have paid tribute to the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti, who died on Tuesday.
In separate statements, they described Fasoranti’s death as a great “loss”.
“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, our father, patriarch, elder statesman, and foremost Afenifere leader, who died at the glorious age of 100,” Tinubu wrote in a statement he issued personally.
Describing him as “an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family,” the president said Fasoranti’s life “was a lesson in integrity, discipline, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and the unity and progress of Nigeria”.
Tinubu said the elder statesman made “immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today”.
“Pa Fasoranti distinguished himself in every respect: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his 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,” the president said.
“I recall Baba’s centenary on May 11 this year, when we celebrated not just longevity, but a legacy of honour. He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints in the sands of time.
“I also recall his prayers and counsel when I came to his residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of my decision to contest the presidency. Pa Fasoranti told me I would be President in his lifetime, and God answered his prayer. 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.”
He commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the government and people of Ondo State and South-West Nigeria, and the entire Afenifere family.
