Elder statesman and National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, has passed on at the age of 100.
His death was announced on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 by the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, in a statement he personally signed in Akure, the state capital.
The statement titled “Gov Aiyedatiwa Mourns Passing of Elder Statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, At 100”, said the governor received the news with a heavy heart but with total submission to the will of God.
The governor described Fasoranti as a revered elder statesman whose life was marked by wisdom, integrity and selfless service to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
The statement read in full: “With a heavy heart but with total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing of our revered elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who departed this world at the glorious age of 100.
“Pa Fasoranti was a patriarch, a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service whose century-long life was marked by uncommon commitment to the development of our dear State, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.
“His counsel, fatherly guidance and principled stand on issues of justice and good governance will be sorely missed.
“He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints of honour and legacy for generations to come.”
On behalf of the Ondo State Government and its people, Governor Aiyedatiwa extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and the entire state.
He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul, saying: “May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, he was a distinguished educationist, administrator, and pro-democracy activist.
Pa Fasoranti’s career and public service saw him serving as the Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1983.
He also founded several educational institutions, including Akure High School.
Among his legacy, the late sage would be remembered as a committed follower of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, with his political journey was deeply rooted in progressivism and Yoruba ideals.
As the National Leader of Afenifere, he was a fierce advocate for democratic governance, true federalism, and justice in Nigeria.
The 11th of May 2026 was a centenary milestone for the highly respected Elder Statesman. He celebrated his historic 100th birthday, drawing widespread praise and tributes from prominent leaders across Nigeria, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
