By John Dike
The Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has paid tribute to the late elder statesman and national leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, describing his death at the age of 100 as a monumental loss to the Yoruba race and Nigeria.
The Ooni said the deceased was a pillar of wisdom whose life was defined by integrity, selfless service, patriotism and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of his people.
The monarch’s tribute was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare.
Ooni Ogunwusi, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), said Pa Fasoranti belonged to a generation of distinguished leaders whose contributions to Nigeria’s political development and democratic struggle would remain indelible in the nation’s history.
He noted that the late Afenifere leader played a significant role in preserving Yoruba identity and advancing the political and socio-economic interests of his people.
According to the monarch, Pa Fasoranti’s lifelong commitment to justice, equity, good governance and the welfare of the Yoruba people reflected the enduring values of responsible leadership and service to humanity.
The Ooni further observed that the elder statesman’s influence extended beyond his leadership of Afenifere, noting that his decades of public service and political engagement earned him respect as a voice of wisdom on issues affecting Yorubaland and Nigeria.
He said the late centenarian’s life remained a testament to patriotism, perseverance and the responsibility of leaders to prioritise the collective interest of their people above personal considerations.
Ooni Ogunwusi added that Pa Fasoranti’s legacy would continue to inspire younger generations to uphold integrity, promote peaceful coexistence, foster unity and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
The monarch also extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government and the entire Yoruba race over what he described as an irreparable loss.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed elder statesman’s soul, asking Almighty Olodumare to grant his family, associates and admirers the fortitude to bear the loss.
