Makinde mourns Pa Fasoranti, says Yoruba nation has lost moral compass

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the death of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, leader of Afenifere, as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation, saying the late elder statesman devoted his life to promoting integrity, unity and selfless service.

Makinde, in a condolence message issued on Tuesday, described Fasoranti as a towering voice of conscience whose wisdom and courage shaped Yoruba politics and public life for decades.

The governor said the late Afenifere leader’s death marked the end of an era, noting that his contributions to the Yoruba nation transcended generations.

“I received with deep sorrow the news of Pa Reuben Fasoranti’s passing. For many decades, Pa Fasoranti stood at the intersection of conscience and public duty, shaping the moral architecture of our politics and offering guidance that transcended generations. His transition is a historic loss for our people,” Makinde said.

He described Fasoranti’s demise as the loss of a guiding light who helped the Yoruba people navigate political challenges and societal changes.

“His passing is not just the departure of an elder statesman; it is the dimming of a light that guided our people through decades of political turbulence, cultural evolution, and national transformation,” the governor stated.

ALSO READ: Nigeria unveils 10-year capital markets plan, targets $1trn economy

Makinde noted that Fasoranti devoted much of his 100 years to mentoring people, strengthening institutions and upholding the values of the Yoruba people.

“Pa Fasoranti spent many of his 100 years shaping minds, strengthening institutions, and reminding us of the values that define us as Yoruba. We will greatly miss him and his insights,” he added.

The governor extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government and people, as well as the entire Yoruba race.

He said the late elder statesman’s influence cut across Yorubaland, stressing that his wisdom, humility and commitment to the Yoruba cause would remain part of the region’s collective heritage.

“The pain of this loss reverberates across Yorubaland, for Pa Fasoranti belonged to all of us. His wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to the Yoruba cause enriched every corner of our region,” Makinde said.

While mourning his death, the governor urged the people to celebrate a life dedicated to service rather than personal gain.

“As we mourn, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose. Pa Fasoranti’s century on earth was not spent in pursuit of personal gain, but in service to community, culture, and country,” he said.

Makinde described Fasoranti’s leadership as being defined by conviction, clear thinking and a strong belief in unity, adding that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations of leaders and citizens.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late elder statesman’s soul, urging Nigerians to uphold the principles he represented.

“May his gentle soul find peaceful rest, and may the ideals he embodied; integrity, discipline, and selfless service, continue to guide us as we navigate the future he worked so hard to shape,” the governor said.