Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the revered Yoruba leader and elder statesman who led the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has died at the age of 100.
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, announced his passing on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, describing the late Fasoranti as a patriarch and a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service.
In a condolence statement, Aiyedatiwa said the late elder statesman devoted his century-long life to the development of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
He noted that Fasoranti’s counsel, fatherly guidance and principled positions on justice and good governance would be greatly missed.
The governor, on behalf of the Ondo State Government and its people, extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of the state.
He described the late Afenifere leader as a man who lived a fulfilled life and left behind an enduring legacy of honour and service for generations to emulate.
Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, Fasoranti was a renowned educationist, politician and advocate of good governance whose contributions spanned education and public service.
After his elementary education in Uso, he attended Ondo Boys’ High School, Ondo, Yaba Higher College, Lagos, and the University College, Ibadan, where he pursued higher studies in English and Geography.
A passionate teacher, Fasoranti began his teaching career at his alma mater, Ondo Boys’ High School. He later served as principal of Oyemekun Grammar School, Iju-Itaogbolu Grammar School and Christ School, Ado-Ekiti, where he helped shape the academic and moral development of generations of students.
His commitment to education continued after his retirement from formal teaching, as he established Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School, both in Akure.
Fasoranti’s involvement in politics began during his student days when he joined the Action Group Students Association. His political affiliation later extended to the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), founded by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Under the UPN, he served as Ondo State Commissioner for Finance from 1979 to 1983.
Beyond his political career, Fasoranti became a prominent voice in Yoruba affairs and national discourse, earning recognition for his principled positions on democracy, justice, accountability and good governance.
His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of Yoruba socio-political leadership, education and public service.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the late elder statesman’s wisdom and legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
