The Chairman of the National Assembly and President of the Senate, Dr. Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, has expressed profound sadness over the demise of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, revered elder statesman and National Leader of Afenifere, describing his passing at the age of 100 as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.
Dr. Akpabio, in a condolence message, described the late centenarian as a distinguished patriot, courageous leader and respected voice in Nigeria’s socio-political development, whose lifetime of service, conviction and commitment to the common good would remain indelible in the nation’s history.
The Senate President noted that Pa Fasoranti belonged to an exceptional generation of Nigerians whose contributions to national development were anchored on integrity, selflessness, courage and an unwavering commitment to democratic ideals.
According to Dr. Akpabio, the elder statesman’s remarkable journey of a century represented a shining example of principled leadership, constructive engagement and dedication to the pursuit of justice, equity and national unity.
“Pa Reuben Fasoranti was one of those rare elder statesmen whose lives embodied the wisdom of experience and the strength of conviction. His passing is a painful loss, not only to his immediate family and the Yoruba people, but also to the entire Nigerian nation,” he stated.
The Distinguished Senate President observed that as National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Fasoranti played a significant role in shaping political discourse, promoting democratic governance and advancing the collective aspirations of his people.
He maintained that the late elder statesman’s influence transcended ethnic, regional and political boundaries, stressing that his enduring contributions to nation-building would continue to serve as a reference point for present and future generations of Nigerian leaders.
“At 100, Baba Fasoranti leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, courage and fidelity to his convictions. His life reminds us that true leadership is measured not merely by the positions we occupy, but by the values we uphold, the people we serve and the positive impact we leave on society.
“Though he has departed, the principles he stood for and the example he set will continue to inspire generations of Nigerians,” Dr. Akpabio said.
The Senate President further noted that Pa Fasoranti’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, constructive national dialogue and the advancement of democratic values distinguished him as a patriotic elder statesman whose counsel and wisdom would be greatly missed.
He emphasised that Nigeria had lost a respected father figure and an influential voice whose lifelong dedication to public service reflected the ideals of responsible leadership and national development.
On behalf of the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Akpabio extended heartfelt condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the people of Akure, the Government and people of Ondo State, and the entire Yoruba nation over the passing of their illustrious son and patriarch.
He urged the bereaved family to take solace in the knowledge that their patriarch lived a long, impactful and consequential life, leaving behind a rich legacy of service, integrity and commitment to humanity worthy of honour and emulation.
The Distinguished Senate President prayed for divine comfort and strength for the family, friends, political associates and admirers of the departed elder statesman, while calling on Nigerians to uphold the enduring values for which he stood.
“May the memory of Pa Reuben Fasoranti remain a source of inspiration, and may his life of service continue to remind us of our collective responsibility to build a just, united and prosperous Nigeria,” Dr. Akpabio added.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed elder statesman peaceful repose and give his family and the entire Yoruba nation the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
EmemMaria Ntedodom Offiong, nipr
Deputy Director (Head: Information, Press and Public Relations)
+2347082203400
Emy.offiong@fmino.gov.ng
21st October, 2026.
