The 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 on Tuesday evening.

“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.

“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.

“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.”

On behalf of the Ondo State Government and its people, Aiyedatiwa commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, and the entire state over the loss.

Fasoranti celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11, 2026. Born in Uso, Ondo State, he was an elder statesman, administrator, pro-democracy activist, prominent politician, and leading figure in Afenifere.

He earned a degree in English and Geography from University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan. He later obtained a postgraduate diploma in Education from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom and a master’s degree in Education Administration and School Management from Maguire University in Sydney, Australia.

Fasoranti established several schools, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School in Akure, Akure High School, and St. Frances’ Academy in Igoba, Akure.

The democracy activist taught at his alma mater, Ondo Boys’ High School, and other institutions in the Ondo-Akure axis. He was also a member of the defunct Action Group during the First Republic.

Between 1979 and 1983, Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in the government of the late Adekunle Ajasin in the old Ondo State.

President Bola Tinubu also expressed profound sadness over Fasoranti’s death.

Describing him as “our father, patriarch, elder statesman, and foremost Afenifere leader”, Tinubu, in a statement he personally issued, commiserated with the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, the government and people of Ondo State, South-West Nigeria, and the entire Afenifere family.

“Pa Fasoranti was an icon, a beacon of principle, and one of the last great titans of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive family,” Tinubu said.

“His life, spanning a century, was a lesson in integrity, discipline, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the Yoruba people and the unity and progress of Nigeria.

“Baba never wavered in his belief in true federalism, social justice, and a Nigeria that works for all,” the President said, recalling Fasoranti’s years as an educationist and principal.

Tinubu added: “Baba made immense contributions to this country and, at the risk of his life, fought for the democracy we enjoy today. Pa Fasoranti distinguished himself in every respect: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes.

“Our nation will sorely miss his voice of wisdom, moral authority, and fatherly counsel, especially now, when we need his guidance most.”