By Dapo Akinrefon
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has described the late leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as a symbol of integrity, discipline and selfless service to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria.
Adams, who expressed sorrow over Fasoranti’s death on Tuesday at the age of 100, said his passing marked the end of an era in Yoruba leadership and Nigeria’s socio-political history.
In a tribute, Adams said Nigeria had lost a leader whose wisdom and principled positions on justice, true federalism and good governance had guided generations.
“We have lost a leader whose wisdom and principled stance on issues of justice, true federalism, and good governance had been a guiding light for generations,” he said.
He described Fasoranti’s contributions to Yorubaland as immense and multifaceted, noting that, as Afenifere leader, he championed Yoruba unity and cultural pride while advocating the protection of Yoruba interests within the Nigerian federation.
According to Adams, Fasoranti’s commitment to democratic values and justice earned him respect beyond the Yoruba nation, across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo said the late elder statesman played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s socio-political discourse, particularly through his advocacy for true federalism.
He said Fasoranti believed that Nigeria’s unity could only be sustained through equitable power-sharing and respect for the autonomy of its constituent regions.
Adams also recalled that Fasoranti helped preserve the ideals of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive vision for Nigeria, which emphasised education, social justice and economic development.
He said the late Afenifere leader remained committed to national unity despite his strong advocacy for Yoruba rights.
Adams further described Fasoranti’s leadership style as inclusive and conciliatory, saying he consistently favoured dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.
He noted that the approach contributed to peace and stability in Yorubaland and Nigeria during turbulent periods.
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