President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti following his death on Tuesday at the age of 100, describing his passing as a “monumental loss” to Nigeria and Yorubaland.
Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, remembered Fasoranti as a principled political leader and educationist who devoted much of his life to public service and the struggle for democracy.
“This is monumental loss. Baba made immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today,” the President said.
Fasoranti led Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, and was a committed follower of the political philosophy of the late Obafemi Awolowo.
Tinubu said the elder statesman consistently advocated justice, true federalism and good governance throughout his public life.
Before becoming one of the prominent figures in Yoruba politics, Fasoranti worked as an educationist and later served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State.
He was also involved in the pro-democracy movement during Nigeria’s years of military rule. Tinubu recalled that Fasoranti opposed military dictatorship and survived an assassination attempt during the regime of General Sani Abacha.
The President said Fasoranti’s century-long life was defined by service to Ondo State, the Yoruba people and Nigeria.
“Pa Fasoranti distinguished himself in every respect: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes,” Tinubu said.
He extended his condolences to Fasoranti’s family, the Olus of Akure, the people of Ondo State and members of Afenifere, while praying for the late elder statesman’s eternal rest.
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