Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the national leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, has died at the age of 100.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced his death in a statement on Tuesday evening, October 20, 2026, describing the late elder statesman as a symbol of wisdom, integrity and selfless service.
“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,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa said Fasoranti devoted his life to the development of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria. He also paid tribute to the late leader’s commitment to justice, good governance and public service.
The governor extended condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of Ondo State, adding that the country would miss the elder statesman’s counsel and guidance.
Born on May 11, 1926, Fasoranti built a career in education before becoming a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and the pro-democracy movement.
He studied English and Geography at the University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, and later pursued further studies in education in the United Kingdom and Australia.
As an educationist, he taught at Ondo Boys’ High School and other institutions in the Ondo-Akure area. He also established schools, including Akure High School, contributing to educational development in the state.
Fasoranti’s political career was closely associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the progressive political tradition that influenced the Action Group and the Unity Party of Nigeria.
Between 1979 and 1983, he served as Commissioner for Finance in the administration of the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin in the old Ondo State.
Fasoranti became a leading figure in Afenifere, an organisation associated with the promotion of Yoruba interests, restructuring, federalism and good governance.
He also participated in the struggle against military rule, including the pro-democracy movement that demanded the restoration of civilian government in Nigeria.
Following the death of Afenifere leader Abraham Adesanya, Fasoranti emerged as a prominent leader of the organisation and remained an influential voice in national discussions on governance and the country's political future.
His later years were marked by personal tragedy, including the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, in July 2019.
Fasoranti celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, drawing tributes from political leaders and public figures across the country.
His death marks the end of a century-long life that spanned colonial rule, independence, military governments and Nigeria’s return to democratic governance.
As condolences continue to come in, his contributions to education, politics and the pro-democracy struggle are expected to remain central to assessments of his legacy.