President Tinubu mourns Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, praising his lifelong commitment to democracy, integrity, Yoruba interests and Nigeria’s unity.
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, a foremost Afenifere leader and elder statesman who died at the age of 100.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, and posted on the official X handle of the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Fasoranti as an icon of integrity, discipline and selfless service.
The President said the late elder statesman made significant contributions to Nigeria’s development and fought for the country’s democracy, adding that his death was a great loss to the Yoruba people and the nation.
Tinubu said, “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.
“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.
“Pa Fasoranti was an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family.
“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.
“From his days as an educationist and principal, to his stewardship as Commissioner for Finance in 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.
“Baba made immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today.
