…Ex-Ogun Govs Hail Afenifere Leader’s Legacy Of Integrity, Democracy, Education
Daud Olatunji
Former Ogun State governors, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, have mourned the death of the National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing his passing at the age of 100 as a monumental loss to Yorubaland and Nigeria.
The two former governors, in separate condolence statements, paid glowing tributes to the late elder statesman, highlighting his contributions to democratic governance, education, social justice and the advancement of the Yoruba people.
Fasoranti reportedly died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, after a century marked by political activism, public service and commitment to the progressive ideals associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Daniel, who described the deceased as a father figure and moral compass, said his death marked the end of an era for the Yoruba nation and the Awolowo political family.
The former governor noted that Fasoranti’s life was defined by integrity, courage and unwavering commitment to the progressive cause, adding that his contributions to the political and social development of the country would remain relevant to future generations.
Recalling his personal relationship with the late Afenifere leader, Daniel said he visited Fasoranti in 2019 to commiserate with him following the tragic killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin.
According to Daniel, the elder statesman demonstrated remarkable resilience despite the devastating personal loss, continuing to provide leadership and guidance to the Yoruba people at a difficult time.
He described Fasoranti as one of the few remaining elder statesmen deeply committed to Nigeria’s continued existence and the pursuit of a just and equitable society.
Daniel also recalled the tribute he paid to Fasoranti during the latter’s 99th birthday lecture in Akure, Ondo State, where he described the centenarian as the embodiment of the Yoruba Omoluabi values of integrity, wisdom, courage and service to the community.
He said Fasoranti’s significance went beyond his longevity, stressing that the late Afenifere leader distinguished himself through the positive impact he made on society throughout his lifetime.
The former governor urged Fasoranti’s family, the government and people of Ondo State, and members of Afenifere to draw strength from the enduring legacy of honour and selfless service he left behind.
Daniel added that the deceased remained committed to the causes of democracy and true federalism until his final days, describing his life as a model for younger generations of political leaders.
He prayed that God would grant the late elder statesman eternal rest and give his family and associates the strength to bear the loss.
Similarly, Amosun described Fasoranti’s death as a great loss to his immediate family, Afenifere, Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued by his media office on Wednesday, the former governor said the late Afenifere leader’s contributions to the advancement of the Yoruba people, democratic governance and education would remain indelible in the nation’s history.
Amosun described Fasoranti as a committed advocate of good governance, true federalism and social justice, noting that he consistently championed the progress of the Yoruba people alongside the unity and development of Nigeria.
He also paid tribute to the deceased’s commitment to the political philosophy of Awolowo, saying Fasoranti remained a steadfast adherent of the progressive ideals of integrity, social welfare, accountable leadership and selfless service.
Beyond his political activities, Amosun highlighted Fasoranti’s contributions to education and public administration.
He noted that the late elder statesman served as a teacher and school principal, helping to shape generations of students before serving as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983.
According to Amosun, these roles reflected Fasoranti’s lifelong commitment to public service and the development of society.
Although his death marks the end of an era, the former governor said his convictions, exemplary life and contributions to humanity would continue to inspire generations.
Amosun prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and asked God to grant his family, the Afenifere organisation and all those mourning him the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The tributes from the two former Ogun governors add to the reflections on the legacy of a prominent figure in Yoruba politics whose public life was closely associated with the Awolowo progressive tradition and advocacy for democratic governance.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the tributes centred on Fasoranti’s lifelong commitment to public service, political accountability, education and the pursuit of true federalism, ideals his admirers say should continue to guide Nigeria’s political leadership.
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