The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, has mourned the passing of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, former National Leader of Afenifere, the apex socio-political body of the South-West.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Amb. Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF said it received with profound sadness the news of Fasoranti’s death on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.
The group extended its deepest condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership of Afenifere, the Akure Kingdom, Ondo State, the Yoruba nation and all Nigerians.
PANDEF described Pa Fasoranti’s life as one defined by integrity, quiet consistency and service. It noted that he was an educationist of first rank who taught for decades and served as an accomplished principal, and a lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo who remained an unwavering advocate for progressive values, restructuring and democratic accountability.
The Forum said Fasoranti led Afenifere through periods of both consensus and internal strain.
PANDEF recalled that through the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF, the coalition of socio-political organisations of the South-South (PANDEF), South-West (Afenifere), South-East (Ohanaeze Ndigbo) and Middle Belt Forum, it enjoyed years of close and constructive relations with Fasoranti and his then Deputy, late Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
Under them, PANDEF said Afenifere was a foundation member of the Forum and Fasoranti remained a steady, respected voice at the national level for true federalism, devolution of power and democratic governance.
The group noted that on the occasion of the death of its long-time leader, Chief Edwin Clark, in 2025, Fasoranti paid a brotherly tribute, describing him as a tireless advocate for a restructured Nigeria and for the interests of the South-South.
PANDEF said that tribute summed up the mutual regard and long-standing solidarity between Afenifere and PANDEF on questions of national cohesion, peace and entrenchment of rule of law, justice, equity and resource control.
“Pa Fasoranti has clearly left footprints in the long struggle for a better, democratic and more equitable Nigeria. His passing closes a significant chapter in the history of progressive politics in the country and inter-regional collaboration,” the statement read.
PANDEF enjoined the family and the Yoruba nation to be guided by the scripture that “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… they will rest from their labour,” and prayed for his soul to rest in perfect peace.
