President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100, describing him as a symbol of integrity, principled leadership and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Tinubu, in a condolence statement issued by the State House on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, expressed profound sadness over the death of the revered Yoruba leader, whose contributions to education, public service, democracy and progressive politics spanned several decades.
The President, on behalf of the Federal Government and the Nigerian people, extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government and its citizens, the wider South-West region, and members of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere.
He described the late Fasoranti as an iconic figure and one of the last towering personalities in the progressive political tradition associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti’s life, which spanned an entire century, exemplified integrity, discipline, selflessness and an enduring commitment to the welfare of the Yoruba people and the advancement of Nigeria.
The President noted that the late elder statesman made remarkable contributions to the country, beginning with his career in education before moving into public administration and politics.
Fasoranti served as an educationist and school principal before becoming Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State. He later emerged as the leader of Afenifere, where he remained a prominent advocate of true federalism, social justice and a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria.
Tinubu also acknowledged the sacrifices Fasoranti made in the struggle for democracy, noting that the elder statesman risked his life in the fight for the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
He said Fasoranti distinguished himself through his modest lifestyle, strong convictions, disciplined conduct and steadfast dedication to causes he considered worthy.
The President lamented that Nigeria had lost a respected voice of wisdom, moral authority and fatherly guidance, stressing that the country would particularly miss his counsel at a time when his experience and insight remained invaluable.
Tinubu recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, describing the milestone as an opportunity to honour not merely his longevity but also the enduring legacy of honour and service he left behind.
The President also recounted a personal encounter with the late Afenifere leader in 2022, when he visited his residence in Akure to inform him of his intention to contest the presidency.
According to Tinubu, Fasoranti offered prayers and words of encouragement during the visit, expressing confidence that he would become President while the elder statesman was still alive.
Tinubu said he was grateful that the prediction had come to pass, attributing its fulfilment to divine grace.
The President, however, expressed sadness that Fasoranti would not live to witness the full benefits of his administration’s economic reforms, particularly the anticipated growth and prosperity he hoped Nigerians would experience during his second term.
Despite the loss, Tinubu urged Nigerians to give thanks for the long and fulfilled life of the departed statesman, whose years were marked by service, sacrifice and an enduring commitment to the public good.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort his family, associates and all those mourning his death, granting them the strength to bear the loss.
The statement was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu himself.
