Tributes pour in as sympathisers visit Fasoranti’s Akure residence

By Boye Oyeyemi

Sympathisers, political associates and prominent figures on Wednesday visited the Akure residence of late Yoruba leader and Afenifere chieftain, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, to commiserate with his family following his death at the age of 100.

The visitors converged on his residence in Ijapo Estate, Akure, Ondo State, following his death on Tuesday evening. A condolence register was opened for mourners to pay their last respects to the elder statesman.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described Fasoranti as a man of kindness, humility, wisdom and inner strength, noting that he devoted his life to ideas and initiatives that benefited humanity.

The governor said the late statesman left a lasting legacy through his remarkable achievements and commitment to serving society. He added that Fasoranti’s contributions would continue to be remembered by those whose lives he touched.

Similarly, the Secretary-General of Afenifere, Sehinde Arogbofa, said Fasoranti remained committed to the ideals of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation as established by its revered leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Arogbofa described the deceased as a mentor and unifying figure who worked to reconcile aggrieved members of the organisation. He said Fasoranti’s accommodating nature and commitment to unity would be greatly missed.

The Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, described Fasoranti as a fulfilled man, praising him as a legendary educationist and political scientist whose influence shaped many lives. The governor’s Special Adviser on Health, Prof. Simidele Odimayo, also commended his integrity, courage and commitment to defending the vulnerable.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Ondo State 2027 All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council, Victor Olabimtan, described Fasoranti as a towering figure in Afenifere and an embodiment of the Yoruba value of omoluabi. He said the late elder statesman’s life and service remained worthy of emulation.