Pa Reuben Fasoranti Dies at 100

Elder statesman and prominent Yoruba leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, has died at the age of 100.

His death was announced on Tuesday by Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who described the centenarian’s passing as a great loss to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.

In a condolence message, the governor said Fasoranti’s life was marked by wisdom, integrity and selfless service, noting that his contributions to the development of the state and the country would remain part of his enduring legacy.

Aiyedatiwa said the late elder statesman was a beacon of wisdom whose counsel, fatherly guidance and principled positions on justice and good governance would be sorely missed.

The governor, on behalf of the state government and the people of Ondo State, commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and the entire state over the loss.

Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, Fasoranti was a teacher, educationist, politician, pro-democracy activist and a prominent figure in the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere.

He began his career as a teacher before serving in several educational institutions, including Oyemekun Grammar School, Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School and Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, where he served as principal.

His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he established schools to expand access to learning in Ondo State.

Fasoranti also played a significant role in the political development of the old Western Region and Ondo State. A disciple of the late nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he was associated with the progressive political tradition and participated actively in Nigeria’s democratic development.

He served as Ondo State Commissioner for Finance between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin.

As a leading figure in Afenifere, Fasoranti championed Yoruba interests and advocated good governance, restructuring and democratic principles.

His decades of involvement in public affairs earned him recognition as one of the influential voices in Yoruba political and socio-cultural affairs.

Aiyedatiwa described the late centenarian as a man who lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints of honour and service for generations to emulate.

The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for his family and the people of Ondo State to bear the loss.