From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
The Yoruba nation has lost one of its prominent elder statesmen following the death of Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, at the age of 100.
Fasoranti, an indigene of Akure, Ondo State, died yesterday, barely months after celebrating his centenary with prominent political leaders, traditional rulers and other dignitaries.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced his death, describing the late Afenifere leader as a symbol of wisdom, integrity and selfless service whose contributions to the development of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria would remain enduring.
The governor said Fasoranti’s commitment to justice, good governance and the welfare of the people distinguished him as an elder statesman whose counsel and guidance would be greatly missed.
Aiyedatiwa, on behalf of the government and people of Ondo State, commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, Afenifere members and the Yoruba nation over the loss.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and urged those he left behind to draw inspiration from his life of service.
Fasoranti had recently celebrated his 100th birthday at events held in Akure and Lagos, attended by prominent Nigerians, Afenifere leaders and political figures who paid tribute to his contributions to Yoruba sociopolitical development.
His death marks the passing of a prominent figure in the leadership of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba sociocultural organisation that has played a significant role in political discourse and advocacy for federalism, democracy and regional development in Nigeria.
Fasoranti was born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, and built a career spanning education, public administration and politics. A former teacher and school principal, he established educational institutions in Akure, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School.
He was a political associate of the late Obafemi Awolowo and served as Commissioner for Finance in Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of Adekunle Ajasin.
His involvement in Yoruba political affairs extended through the Action Group, the Unity Party of Nigeria and Afenifere, where he became an influential voice on federalism, democratic governance and regional interests.
At his centenary celebration in May, President Bola Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians paid tribute to his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development and public service.
His death was independently reported on Tuesday by several national news organisations following Aiyedatiwa’s announcement.