By Ade Oyeyemi
Sympathisers, political associates and prominent personalities on Wednesday visited the Akure residence of the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, to commiserate with his family following his death at the age of 100.
Fasoranti reportedly died on Tuesday evening. A condolence register was opened at his residence in Ijapo Estate, Ondo State, for visitors to pay their final respects to the elder statesman.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described the deceased as a symbol of kindness, humility, knowledge and inner strength, noting that he consistently used his ideas and experience for the benefit of humanity.
The governor added that Fasoranti had made a lasting impact during his lifetime, saying the late Yoruba leader “came, lived and conquered.”
Similarly, the Secretary-General of Afenifere, Sehinde Arogbofa, described Fasoranti as an accommodating leader who upheld the organisation’s founding ideals associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Arogbofa said the deceased served as a unifying force within the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, bringing together aggrieved members. He added, “He was a mentor to all of us. We thank God for his life.”
The Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, described Fasoranti as a fulfilled man, a legendary educationist and political scientist whose influence extended to many people. The Ondo State Governor’s Special Adviser on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, also praised his integrity, courage and commitment to defending the vulnerable.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council for 2027 in Ondo State, Victor Olabimtan, described Fasoranti as a towering figure in Afenifere and an embodiment of omoluabi values, adding that his life remained worthy of emulation.
