President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, describing him as an elder statesman whose wisdom, moral authority and commitment to national development would be sorely missed.
Tinubu, in a condolence statement issued by the State House on Tuesday, said the death of Fasoranti, who passed away at the age of 100, was a great loss to his family, the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.
The President, who expressed profound sadness over the death, commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government, the people of the South-West and members of Afenifere.
He described the late elder statesman as an icon, a beacon of principle and one of the last great figures in the progressive political tradition of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
According to him, Fasoranti’s life was a testament to integrity, discipline, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and the unity and progress of Nigeria.
Tinubu recalled the late Afenifere leader’s contributions to education and public service, noting that he served as an educationist and principal before becoming Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State.
He said Fasoranti remained committed to the principles of true federalism, social justice and the development of a Nigeria that works for all throughout his public life.
The President added that the deceased made immense contributions to the country and risked his life in the struggle for the restoration of democracy.
“Pa Fasoranti distinguished himself in every respect: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes,” Tinubu said.
He added that Nigeria would miss the elder statesman’s voice of wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, particularly at a time when the country needed his guidance.
Tinubu also recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, saying the occasion was an opportunity to celebrate not only his longevity but also his legacy of honour and service.
The President further recounted his visit to the elder statesman’s residence in Akure in 2022, when he informed him of his intention to contest the presidency.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti prayed for his presidential ambition to succeed and expressed the belief that he would become President during his lifetime.
“I 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,” he said.
Tinubu expressed regret that the late Afenifere leader would not be alive to witness his second term in office and the economic growth and prosperity he hoped to see in the country.
He, however, urged Nigerians to be grateful for the deceased’s long life of service and fulfilment.
The President prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning his death.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. May God comfort all who mourn him and grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss,” he said.
