The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and former Osun State Deputy Governor, Senator Iyiola Omisore, have mourned the death of the National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100.
The Ooni described the death of the elder statesman as “A profound loss to the Yoruba race and Nigeria,” saying his life was defined by dedicated service, wisdom, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of his people.
The monarch’s tribute was contained in a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare.
Oba Ogunwusi described Fasoranti as a member of “A generation of respected leaders, whose contributions to the political development of the country, the preservation of Yoruba identity and the struggle for democratic governance would remain significant in the nation’s history.”
He said the late Afenifere leader’s commitment to justice, good governance, equity and the welfare of the Yoruba people reflected the enduring values of responsible leadership and service to humanity.
The Ooni noted that Fasoranti’s influence extended beyond his leadership of Afenifere.
“His decades of public service and political engagement made him a respected voice in discussions concerning the future of Yorubaland and Nigeria,” he said.
The monarch extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, Afenifere leaders and members, the people of Akure, the government and people of Ondo State, and the Yoruba race.
He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the late elder statesman’s soul, asking Almighty Olodumare to grant his family, associates and admirers the strength to bear the loss.
Meanwhile, Omisore described Fasoranti as a true nation-builder and an uncommon leader whose wealth of experience would be sorely missed by the Yoruba people and Nigeria.
In a condolence message signed by the Director General of the Rescue Mission, Omisore Campaign Organisation, Ajibola Famurewa, the former deputy governor described the late centenarian as an institution with exceptional leadership qualities, knowledge and the ability to work with others.
“What made Baba exceptional was that even at 100, he remained politically alert, mentally sound, and intellectually sharp.
“He never suffered the memory loss often associated with old age.
“He could recall events, dates, and historical facts with precision.
“He was one of those rare gems created by God,” Omisore said.
He noted that Fasoranti would be remembered for his uprightness, discipline and incorruptible leadership, which made him a moral compass for Afenifere and Yorubaland.
Omisore also recalled occasions “Where Fasoranti’s wisdom, fatherly counsel and strategic guidance helped to shape, stabilise and strengthen Afenifere as a formidable socio-political group, making it the envy of similar groups in other parts of the country.”
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He said the late elder statesman’s principled positions on justice, federalism, restructuring and good governance had provided direction for the Yoruba nation for decades, adding that his century-long life offered a lesson in selfless service.
Omisore extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the government and people of Ondo State, Afenifere and the entire Yorubaland, praying for the departed patriarch to be granted eternal rest.
Fasoranti’s death was confirmed by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in a statement he personally issued on Tuesday.
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