Shettima Mourns Fasoranti, Says Nigeria Has Lost A Century Of Wisdom

Vice President Kashim Shettima has mourned the death of Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing his passing at 100 as the loss of a century of wisdom and principled leadership.

Shettima said the late elder statesman played a significant role in Nigeria’s political and democratic history, contributing to education, democratic governance and progressive politics.

In a condolence message on Wednesday, the Vice President sympathised with the Fasoranti family, Afenifere, the Ondo State Government and people, as well as the Yoruba nation.

“There are men who live through history, and there are those whose lives become part of history itself. Pa Reuben Fasoranti belonged to the latter,” he said.

Shettima described Fasoranti as a custodian of Nigeria’s political history who remained committed to his convictions and the common good throughout his lifetime.

He said the late statesman’s legacy went beyond the number of years he lived or the offices he occupied, stressing that his values, influence and contributions to society would endure.

“Baba’s passing reminds us that the true measure of a life is neither the number of years lived nor the offices occupied, but the values transmitted, the people inspired and the institutions strengthened along the way,” the Vice President said.

Shettima acknowledged the pain of losing a cherished patriarch, mentor and counsellor, noting that even a century of life could not prepare a family for the departure of a loved one.

He urged Nigerians to preserve the values of dialogue, mutual respect and responsible citizenship, particularly during periods of political disagreement.

The Vice President prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and divine comfort for his family and all those mourning him.

Fasoranti, a prominent Yoruba leader and advocate of progressive politics, was widely regarded as an influential voice in Nigeria’s democratic journey.