Fasoranti, one of Awolowo’s last great titans — Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of the leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing him as an elder statesman whose life was defined by integrity, discipline and commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Tinubu, in a condolence statement he personally issued on Tuesday, extended his sympathies to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure, the Ondo State Government, South-West Nigeria and members of Afenifere.
The President described the late Fasoranti as “an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family.”
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.
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.
Pa Fasoranti was an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family.
His life, spanning a century, was a lesson in integrity, discipline, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and the unity and progress of Nigeria.
The President also recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, describing the occasion as a celebration of not only longevity but also a legacy of honour. Tinubu further recounted his visit to Fasoranti’s residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of his decision to contest the presidency.
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.