Tinubu mourns Afenifere leader Fasoranti, pays tribute to his legacy

President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the Afenifere leader and elder statesman who died at the age of 100.

Tinubu, in a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, described Fasoranti as a father figure, a principled leader and one of the last great figures in the progressive political tradition of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The president, on behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, extended condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government, the South-West and the entire Afenifere family.

He said Fasoranti’s life exemplified integrity, discipline, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and Nigeria’s unity and development.

Tinubu recalled that Fasoranti served as an educationist and school principal before becoming commissioner for finance in the old Western Region and later leading Afenifere. He said the late elder statesman remained committed to true federalism, social justice and a Nigeria that worked for all.

The president also acknowledged Fasoranti’s contributions to the country’s democratic struggle, noting that he fought for the democracy Nigerians enjoy today, sometimes at the risk of his life.

“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,” Tinubu said.