Tinubu Mourns Pa Fasoranti, Says Nigeria Has Lost a Moral Voice
Tinubu Mourns Pa Fasoranti, Says Nigeria Has Lost a Moral Voice
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as a great loss to Nigeria, paying tribute to the late elder statesman for his contributions to democracy, national unity and the advancement of the Yoruba people.
Fasoranti died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.
Tinubu, in a condolence message issued by the State House on Tuesday, expressed sadness over the death of the prominent Yoruba leader, describing him as an icon of integrity and one of the last great figures in the progressive political tradition of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
The President, who spoke on behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government, the people of the South-West and members of the Afenifere socio-political organisation.
He said the late Afenifere leader’s life of more than a century exemplified discipline, selflessness, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the progress of the Yoruba people and the unity of Nigeria.
Tinubu recalled Fasoranti’s contributions to education and public service, noting that he served as an educationist and school principal before becoming Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State.
He added that Fasoranti remained committed to the principles of true federalism, social justice and a prosperous Nigeria throughout his leadership of Afenifere.
According to the President, the late elder statesman also made significant sacrifices in the struggle for democracy, sometimes putting his life at risk to secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
Tinubu described Fasoranti as a man of strong principles whose disciplined lifestyle and commitment to noble causes earned him respect across the country.
He said Nigeria would greatly miss the deceased’s wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, particularly at a time when the country needed the guidance of experienced leaders.
The President also recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, saying the occasion represented not only his longevity but also a lifetime of honour and service to humanity.
Tinubu further recounted his visit to Fasoranti’s residence in Akure in 2022, when he informed the elder statesman of his intention to contest the presidency.
According to him, Fasoranti prayed for his success and expressed confidence that he would become President during his lifetime, a wish Tinubu said was fulfilled.
The President, however, expressed regret that the late Afenifere leader would not be alive to witness his second term and the anticipated benefits of economic growth and prosperity.
Despite the loss, Tinubu urged Nigerians to give thanks for the late elder statesman’s long and fulfilled life, noting that he left behind an enduring legacy.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning his death.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” the President said.
