AKURE, Ondo State — Nigeria has lost a prominent elder statesman and pro-democracy advocate, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the national leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, who died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, announced the death in a statement, describing Fasoranti as a respected leader whose life was marked by integrity, wisdom and selfless service to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.

The governor said the late Afenifere leader provided guidance on critical issues affecting governance, justice and national development, adding that his counsel and fatherly leadership would be greatly missed.

Aiyedatiwa also extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of Ondo State over the loss.

Fasoranti, who celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, was one of the influential figures in Yoruba politics and a prominent disciple of the late nationalist and political leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, Fasoranti built a career in education before becoming deeply involved in politics and the struggle for democratic governance in Nigeria.

A trained educationist, he taught at Ondo Boys’ High School and later served as principal of Oyemekun Grammar School and Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School. He also established educational institutions, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School.

His commitment to education remained an important part of his legacy, alongside his involvement in public service and political development.

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Between 1979 and 1983, Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin. His political outlook was strongly influenced by Awolowo’s progressive philosophy and its emphasis on education, social welfare and good governance.

Fasoranti later emerged as the leader of Afenifere following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya. Under his leadership, the organisation remained an influential voice in debates on Yoruba interests, national unity, restructuring and the future of Nigeria’s federal system.

He was also associated with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a pro-democracy movement that opposed military rule and demanded the restoration of democratic government. His role in the struggle placed him among the prominent voices advocating constitutional rule and political accountability during Nigeria’s years of military dictatorship.

Throughout his public life, Fasoranti consistently expressed views on governance, justice, equity and the need for a more balanced federal structure. His interventions in national affairs made him a reference point for political leaders and members of the Yoruba community.

Following news of his death, tributes began pouring in from political leaders and public figures.

Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun, described Fasoranti’s death as a significant loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria. He praised the late elder statesman’s contributions to democratic development and his commitment to justice, equity and good governance.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had also celebrated Fasoranti’s 100th birthday in May, joining other prominent Nigerians in recognising his contributions to public service and the country’s political history.

Fasoranti’s death marks the end of a century-long life that spanned Nigeria’s colonial period, independence, military rule and the return to civilian democracy.

His legacy is expected to endure through his contributions to education, public administration, Yoruba political affairs and the campaign for democratic governance.

As the family, Afenifere and the wider Yoruba community mourn his passing, the late elder statesman will be remembered for his long-standing involvement in public life and his advocacy for justice, accountability and national development.