By: Odeh Favour
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the passing of elder statesman and foremost Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100.
In an official statement shared on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, via his X (formerly Twitter) handle (@aonanuga), the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, released the President’s message commiserating with the late elder statesman’s family, the people of Akure, and the entire South-West region.
“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, our father, patriarch, elder statesman, and foremost Afenifere leader, who died at the glorious age of 100,” President Tinubu stated.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, I commiserate with the Fasoranti family, the good people of Akure Kingdom, the government and people of Ondo State and South-West Nigeria, and the entire Afenifere family,” he said.
Describing the late patriarch as a towering figure in the nation’s political history, President Tinubu noted that Pa Fasoranti was a pillar of discipline and principle.
“Pa Fasoranti was an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family,” the President remarked.
“His life, spanning a century, was a lesson in integrity, discipline, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and the unity and progress of Nigeria,” he added.
Highlighting his historic career, the President acknowledged Baba’s roles as an educationist, principal, and public servant.
“From his days as an educationist and principal, to his stewardship as Commissioner for Finance in the Ondo State, and later as the leader of Afenifere, Baba never wavered in his belief in true federalism, social justice, and a Nigeria that works for all,” Tinubu said.
He further commended the late Afenifere leader’s courageous contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Baba made immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today,” the President noted.
“Pa Fasoranti distinguished himself in every respect: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes,” he stated.
“Our nation will sorely miss his voice of wisdom, moral authority, and fatherly counsel, especially now, when we need his guidance most,” President Tinubu added.
Reflecting on recent encounters with the late elder statesman, the President recalled celebrating Baba’s centenary milestone earlier in the year.
“I recall Baba’s centenary on May 11 this year, when we celebrated not just longevity, but a legacy of honour. He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints in the sands of time,” he said.
“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,” the President revealed.
“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 added.
Concluding his tribute, President Tinubu called on Nigerians to give thanks for the fulfilled life led by the late leader.
“But we must thank God for Pa Fasoranti’s long life of service, grace and fulfilment,” he stated.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. May God comfort all who mourn him and grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss,” President Tinubu prayed.
