The National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, has died at the age of 100.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, announced his death in a statement he personally issued on Tuesday, October 20.
The governor described the late elder statesman as a respected leader whose life was marked by his commitment to the development of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
Aiyedatiwa expressed sadness over the death of Fasoranti, saying his passing was a significant loss to the state and the country.
The statement read, “With a heavy heart but with total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing of our revered elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who departed this world at the glorious age of 100.”
“Pa Fasoranti was a patriarch, a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service whose century-long life was marked by uncommon commitment to the development of our dear State, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large,” the statement added.
Aiyedatiwa also noted that the late elder statesman provided guidance on important national and political issues, particularly those concerning justice and good governance.
According to the governor, Fasoranti’s counsel and fatherly advice would be greatly missed by those who benefited from his leadership and experience.
“His counsel, fatherly guidance and principled stand on issues of justice and good governance will be sorely missed. He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints of honour and legacy for generations to come,” he said.
The governor extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of Ondo State over the death of the centenarian.
“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ondo State, I commiserate with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and the entire State over this great loss. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
Fasoranti was a prominent figure in Yoruba socio-political affairs and served as the national leader of Afenifere, an organisation known for its advocacy on issues affecting the Yoruba people and Nigeria’s political development.
His position placed him among the influential voices in discussions about governance, national unity, democracy and the interests of the Yoruba people.
Over the years, Afenifere has remained involved in political debates and national conversations, particularly on questions concerning restructuring, federalism, justice and the administration of the country.
The death of Fasoranti comes a day after former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, died at the age of 71.
Uduaghan reportedly died on the morning of Monday, October 19, at a hospital in Abuja, where he was receiving medical attention after a period of illness, according to a family member who confirmed the development to Channels Television.
His family also announced his death in a statement signed by his son, Toju Anire Uduaghan, describing the former governor’s passing as a devastating loss.
“His passing has left us devastated. Words can hardly express the depth of our sorrow at the loss of a man who meant so much to our family and whose life and service touched countless others across Delta State and Nigeria,” the family said.
Uduaghan served as governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015, completing two terms in office. Before becoming governor, he served as Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 and later as Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
A medical doctor by profession, he remained involved in political affairs after leaving office and contested the Delta South Senatorial District seat in the 2019 general elections.
Uduaghan died three days before his 72nd birthday, which would have been on October 22, 2026.
President Bola Tinubu and other political leaders have expressed condolences to his family and the people of Delta State following his death.
