Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the head of the Afenifere socio-political group, died in Akure, Ondo State, at the age of 100. Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the news on Tuesday, describing the late figure as a patriarch who dedicated his life to the development of Yorubaland and Nigeria. According to Punch, the governor noted that Fasoranti’s guidance on justice and governance would be missed by the state and the broader region.
President Bola Tinubu also issued a statement on Tuesday, mourning the loss of a man he viewed as a pillar of integrity. Punch reported that Tinubu referred to Fasoranti as a leading figure in the political tradition established by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The President highlighted the late leader’s work as an educator and public servant, stating that his century-long life demonstrated unwavering commitment to national unity and democratic principles.
Punch’s background report outlines Fasoranti’s career, which began in education before he entered politics. Born in 1926, he studied in Ibadan and later in the United Kingdom and Australia. He served as Finance Commissioner in the old Ondo State from 1979 to 1983. After Pa Abraham Adesanya’s death, Fasoranti took charge of Afenifere, guiding the group through internal conflicts while pushing for federalism and political restructuring.
The late leader was also known for his role in the struggle for democracy, particularly during the military regime of General Sani Abacha. Punch reported that Fasoranti remained associated with pro-democracy advocacy and survived an assassination attempt linked to that era. In 2021, at 95, he named Chief Ayo Adebanjo as acting head while retaining his own position as the substantive leader.
Tinubu recalled celebrating Fasoranti’s centennial birthday on May 11, 2026, and visiting his home in Akure in 2022 to discuss the presidential race. The President expressed hope that Fasoranti would have lived to see his second term, though he thanked God for the elder statesman’s long life of service. Premium Times noted that the governor commiserated with the Fasoranti family and the people of Akure Kingdom over the great loss.