The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and former Osun State Deputy Governor, Senator Iyiola Omisore, have paid tribute to the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, Oba Ogunwusi described Fasoranti’s death as a profound loss to the Yoruba people and Nigeria.
The monarch praised the late elder statesman for his dedication to public service, wisdom, integrity and commitment to the advancement of the Yoruba race.
He noted that Fasoranti belonged to a generation of respected leaders whose contributions to Nigeria’s political development, the preservation of Yoruba identity and the struggle for democratic governance would remain part of the country’s history.
According to the Ooni, the late Afenifere leader’s commitment to justice, equity, good governance and the welfare of the Yoruba people reflected the values of responsible leadership and service to humanity.
He added that Fasoranti’s influence extended beyond his leadership of Afenifere, noting that his decades of public service and political engagement made him a respected voice on the future of Yorubaland and Nigeria.
Oba Ogunwusi extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, Afenifere members, the people of Akure, the Ondo State Government and the entire Yoruba race. He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and strength for those mourning him.
Meanwhile, Omisore also expressed grief over the death of the centenarian in a condolence message signed by Ajibola Famurewa, Director-General of the Rescue Mission, Omisore Campaign Organisation.
He described Fasoranti as an exceptional leader and nation-builder whose experience and wisdom would be greatly missed by the Yoruba people and Nigerians generally.
Omisore said the late statesman was more than a leader, describing him as an institution, a knowledgeable team player and a man whose intellectual sharpness remained remarkable despite his advanced age.
He said Fasoranti remained mentally alert and politically engaged at 100, with an impressive ability to recall historical events, dates and facts accurately.
Omisore also praised his uprightness, discipline and incorruptible leadership, describing him as a moral guide for Afenifere and Yorubaland.
He recalled instances in which Fasoranti’s wisdom, fatherly advice and strategic guidance helped strengthen and stabilise Afenifere, making the organisation a respected force in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
According to Omisore, Fasoranti’s principled positions on justice, true federalism, restructuring and good governance provided direction for the Yoruba nation for decades. He added that the elder statesman’s life exemplified selfless service.
He extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government, Afenifere and the wider Yoruba community, praying for the deceased to find eternal rest.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, confirmed Fasoranti’s death in a statement he personally issued on Tuesday.
