The South-West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA’23) has mourned the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the National Leader of Afenifere, describing him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history.
Fasoranti died at the age of 100.
In a condolence statement signed by its Chairman, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, on Wednesday, the group said the late elder statesman dedicated his life to sacrifice, integrity and selfless service.
“Baba Fasoranti was a towering figure in Nigeria’s history, a teacher, educationist, former Commissioner for Finance of the old Ondo State, a faithful disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and a fearless pro-democracy activist who stood on the side of truth and justice through the most trying periods of our national life,” the statement said.
SWAGA’23 said Fasoranti consistently championed good governance, true federalism, social justice and national unity through his involvement in the progressive political movement and leadership role in Afenifere.
“His life was a century of sacrifice, integrity and selfless service,” the group said, adding that he remained a custodian of the progressive ideals that shaped the South-West.
The group also recalled Fasoranti’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s presidential ambition ahead of the 2023 general elections.
According to the statement, the late Afenifere leader received members of SWAGA’23 in Akure and offered his blessing and prayers at a crucial point in their political activities.
“At a critical time, when the journey for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidency needed the moral authority and guidance of the Yoruba race, Pa Fasoranti opened his doors to us, received us with love in Akure, and gave his full endorsement and prayers,” the statement said.
SWAGA’23 said the gesture strengthened the group’s resolve and confidence, describing the encounter as one of the defining moments in its history.
The group said Fasoranti’s death was a loss not only to his family, the people of Akure, Ondo State and Afenifere, but also to the Yoruba people and the country.
“His passing is not just a loss to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, Ondo State and Afenifere, but to the entire Yoruba race and Nigeria at large,” it said.
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Describing him as a link between different generations of Nigerian politics, SWAGA’23 added: “He was the last of the great titans of the Awoist tradition — a bridge between the First Republic and the Fourth Republic.”
Adeyeye, on behalf of the leadership and members of SWAGA’23 across the South-West and Nigeria, extended condolences to Fasoranti’s family, Afenifere, and the government and people of Ondo State.
“We pray God grants his gentle soul eternal rest and comforts all who mourn him.
“May his legacy live on forever,” the statement added.
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