By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100, describing him as an icon of principle and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive political family.
Tinubu, in a condolence message issued by the State House on Tuesday, said the late elder statesman made immense contributions to Nigeria’s development and democracy, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, discipline and selfless service.
The President recalled visiting Fasoranti at his residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of his decision to contest the presidency, saying the Afenifere leader had predicted that he would become President during his lifetime.
“I also recall his prayers and counsel when I came to his residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of my decision to contest the presidency. Pa Fasoranti told me I would be President in his lifetime, and God answered his prayer,” Tinubu said.
The President expressed regret that the elder statesman would not be alive to witness the full benefits of his administration’s economic reforms, which he hopes will usher in growth and prosperity.
“I had hoped Papa would also be around with us for my second term to witness the full dawn of economic growth and prosperity in the land,” he said.
Tinubu extended condolences, on behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government and people, the South-West region and the entire Afenifere family.
He described the deceased as a beacon of principle whose life, spanning a century, reflected an unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Fasoranti, according to the President, remained committed to true federalism and social justice throughout his public life, from his career as an educationist and school principal to his service as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State and later as leader of Afenifere.
Tinubu also credited the late Afenifere leader with playing a significant role in the struggle for democracy, noting that he fought for the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today, even at the risk of his life.
He said the country would sorely miss Fasoranti’s wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, particularly at a time when his guidance was needed.
The President recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, describing the occasion as a celebration not merely of longevity but of a life marked by honour and service.
“ He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints in the sands of time,” Tinubu said.
He prayed for the repose of the elder statesman’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning his death.
