From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the revered elder statesman and national leader of Afenifere, who died at the age of 100, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Nigeria and generations of leaders who drew inspiration from his exemplary life of service.
Yakubu, in his condolence message, described the late Fasoranti as a distinguished patriot, a principled statesman and a symbol of integrity whose contributions to Nigeria’s political development, democratic governance and national unity would remain indelible in the nation’s history.
He said the late elder statesman represented a generation of Nigerians whose lives were defined by selflessness, courage, discipline and an unwavering commitment to the common good.
“I remember vividly our visit to him and the warm reception he gave us, and words of wisdom and knowledge we got from him when he was alive,” Yakubu recalled.
According to him, Fasoranti’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Nigeria’s political history, particularly at a time when the country needs the wisdom, experience and moral guidance of respected elder statesmen.
“Pa Reuben Fasoranti was more than a respected Yoruba leader; he was a Nigerian patriot whose life and convictions reflected the enduring values of integrity, justice, democratic principles and service to humanity,” Yakubu said.
“His death is a painful loss not only to the Yoruba nation and the Afenifere family but also to Nigeria as a whole. At 100, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy that transcends ethnic, political and regional boundaries.”
The Arewa Think Tank Convener noted that Fasoranti’s commitment to democratic ideals and progressive politics earned him a special place in Nigeria’s political evolution, adding that his life offered important lessons for present and future generations.
Yakubu said the late statesman’s unwavering belief in justice, true federalism, national cohesion and responsible leadership demonstrated that genuine patriotism goes beyond political affiliation or ethnic identity.
“He belonged to a generation that understood that nation-building requires sacrifice, tolerance, courage and a willingness to put the collective interest above personal considerations.
“His life reminds us that leadership is not measured by the positions we occupy but by the values we uphold and the positive impact we leave on society,” he stated.
He further observed that Fasoranti’s influence extended beyond the Southwest, noting that his contributions to national discourse and his commitment to democratic governance made him a figure worthy of recognition across Nigeria.
According to Yakubu, the late Afenifere leader’s reputation as one of the enduring voices of progressive politics and a bridge between different generations of political actors would remain an important part of his legacy.
“Pa Fasoranti stood for principles that remain relevant to Nigeria today. His commitment to justice, democratic governance and the welfare of the people should continue to inspire political leaders, public officeholders and young Nigerians who aspire to contribute meaningfully to national development,” he added.
Yakubu also emphasised the importance of preserving the legacies of Nigeria’s elder statesmen, urging leaders across the country to draw lessons from Fasoranti’s life, convictions and dedication to public service.
He said Nigeria could honour the memory of the departed elder statesman by promoting national unity, strengthening democratic institutions, encouraging constructive dialogue and ensuring that public leadership remained anchored in integrity and accountability.
“The most fitting tribute we can pay to Pa Reuben Fasoranti is to uphold the ideals he represented. His passing should remind us that Nigeria’s diversity is not a weakness but a strength that must be nurtured through mutual respect, justice, understanding and a shared commitment to the progress of our country,” Yakubu said.
The Arewa Think Tank Convener extended his heartfelt condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the people of Ondo State and the entire Yoruba nation over the loss.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the bereaved family, associates and all those mourning the late statesman the strength to bear the loss, while granting the departed elder statesman eternal rest.
Yakubu added that although Pa Fasoranti had departed at the age of 100, the ideals he stood for and the contributions he made to Nigeria’s political and democratic development would continue to resonate long after his passing.
“A life devoted to service does not end with death; it lives on through the values it inspires, the people it touches and the generations it guides. Pa Reuben Fasoranti has left behind a legacy that Nigeria must never forget,” he said.
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