BREAKING: Afenifere Leader Reuben Fasoranti Dies At 100

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 on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in a statement personally issued in Akure, the state capital. The governor described the late elder statesman as a respected leader whose life was dedicated to public service and the development of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.

Aiyedatiwa expressed sadness over the death, describing Fasoranti as a symbol of wisdom, integrity and selfless service. He said the late leader’s guidance and principled positions on justice and good governance would be greatly missed.

The governor also extended condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of Ondo State.

Fasoranti was born on May 11, 1926, in Ondo State. He celebrated his 100th birthday in May this year, marking a century of life that spanned Nigeria’s colonial era, independence, military rule and democratic governance.

Before becoming a prominent figure in Yoruba politics, Fasoranti built a career in education. He worked as a teacher and school administrator and later established educational institutions, including Akure High School, contributing to the development of education in the state.

His involvement in politics was shaped by the progressive ideals of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose political philosophy influenced generations of leaders in southwestern Nigeria. Fasoranti was associated with the Action Group and later 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.

He subsequently became a leading figure in Afenifere, an organisation known for its advocacy on Yoruba interests, restructuring, federalism and good governance. He emerged as the group’s leader after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.

Fasoranti was also associated with Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement and opposed military rule. Over the years, he remained an influential voice in national conversations about democracy, constitutional reform and the political future of Nigeria.

His family also experienced tragedy in 2019 when his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, was killed in an attack along the Ondo-Ore Expressway, an incident that generated widespread public outrage over insecurity.

His death marks the end of a century-long life of education, political engagement and public service.

Further details surrounding his death and funeral arrangements are expected to emerge.