A glorious chapter in Yoruba history closed yesterday as Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 100.
The centenarian, a titan of progressive politics and one of the last living disciples of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, breathed his last around 4pm at his residence on Ijapo Road, Akure, Ondo State.
A Teacher, A Titan, A Principled Awoist
Born to lead and to teach, Pa Fasoranti’s life was a masterclass in integrity, discipline and selfless service. From the classroom as principal of iconic secondary schools in Oyo, Osogbo and Ado-Ekiti, to the corridors of power as Commissioner for Finance under Chief Adekunle Ajasin in the old Ondo State, and later as chairman of Akure Local Government, he left indelible footprints.
He succeeded Senator Abraham Adesanya as Afenifere leader, becoming the moral compass of the Yoruba nation, a bridge between the First and Fourth Republics, and a fearless voice for true federalism, justice and restructuring even under military rule.
His son, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Secretary to the Ondo State Government, who announced the passing, said the family was celebrating a life well spent, not mourning.
“We thank God for his life and for the impactful life he lived. Baba was a man of few words, full of wisdom,” he said, recalling how his father would wait up for him every night, no matter how late he returned from work.
“He was very affirmative, very stern, but passed on his messages with little or no threat. His demeanour, even in adversity, was our lesson.”
Tinubu: He Told Me I Would Be President
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led the rain of tributes, describing Fasoranti as a father, a patriot and the last of the great titans.
In an emotional personal tribute, Tinubu revealed how Pa Fasoranti had prophesied his 2023 victory when he visited him in Akure in 2022.
“Pa Fasoranti told me I would be President in his lifetime, and God answered his prayer. I had hoped Papa would also be around for my second term,” Tinubu wrote.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described him as a beacon of wisdom, while Olu of Ilu Abo, Oba Olu Falae, who knew him for over 60 years, called him “one in a thousand years – an exceptional generational man” who never quarrelled with anyone.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Amb. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele all hailed a life of principle, courage and unwavering commitment to education and community.
Pa Fasoranti wanted his legacy preserved not with tears, but with scholarships for poor children. That foundation, his family says, will live on.
