Says Nigeria has lost a voice of wisdom and moral authority
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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of foremost Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, at 100, recalling how the elder statesman predicted in 2022 that he would become President.
Tinubu, in a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, said Fasoranti gave him the assurance during a visit to his residence in Akure, Ondo State, when he disclosed his intention to contest the presidency.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu described the late Afenifere leader as an icon of principle and one of the last great figures in the progressive political tradition of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
He said Fasoranti’s death was a major loss to the country, particularly at a time when his wisdom, moral authority and counsel were needed.
“Our nation will sorely miss his voice of wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, especially now, when we need his guidance most,” he said.
The President commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure, the Ondo State Government, the South-West and the Afenifere family.
He described the centenarian’s life as a lesson in integrity, discipline, selflessness and commitment to the Yoruba people and Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Fasoranti, a former educationist and principal, also served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Western Region before emerging as leader of Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political organisation.
Tinubu said the elder statesman remained committed to true federalism and social justice and contributed to the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria, even at the risk of his life.
The President recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, saying he had hoped the elder statesman would live to witness his second term and the anticipated benefits of economic growth and prosperity.
“Baba made immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today,” Tinubu said.
He prayed for the repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning him.
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