YPF Mourns Fasoranti, Says Yorubaland Has Lost A Great Patriarch

By Ayobami Agboola, Osogbo

The Yoruba Progressives Forum (YPF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the revered Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.

In a condolence statement signed by its National Coordinator, Alhaji AbdulLateef Olalekan, popularly known as Asiri Ede, the forum described the death of the centenarian as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation, Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

YPF said Pa Fasoranti’s death marked the end of an illustrious chapter in the history of Yoruba political leadership, noting that his life was defined by principled leadership, patriotism, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the welfare and advancement of his people.

The forum said the late Afenifere leader belonged to a distinguished generation of Yoruba leaders whose contributions to progressive politics, democratic governance and the struggle for a just and equitable society would remain relevant to generations yet unborn.

“Pa Fasoranti was more than a political leader; he was a father figure, a custodian of Yoruba values and a symbol of principled public service. His remarkable journey of 100 years was devoted to the promotion of justice, good governance, unity and the development of our people,” the statement said.

According to YPF, the late elder statesman’s commitment to education, public service and democratic ideals distinguished him as one of the influential voices in the political and socio-cultural development of Yorubaland.

The forum noted that Fasoranti’s association with the progressive political tradition of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his subsequent leadership of Afenifere reflected his enduring belief in social justice, accountability and the need for leadership to serve the interests of the people.

“His passing has created a significant vacuum in the Yoruba political and socio-cultural landscape. Although he has departed this world, the ideals he represented and the values he upheld will continue to inspire those committed to the progress of Yorubaland and the Nigerian nation,” YPF added.

The forum extended its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, praying that God would grant them the strength, courage and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. It also commiserated with Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the government and people of Ondo State, the people of Akure Kingdom and the entire Afenifere family.

YPF further expressed sympathy with the Yoruba nation at home and in the diaspora, describing the death of the centenarian as a collective loss to a people who regarded him as a respected voice of wisdom, experience and guidance. It urged Yoruba leaders, political stakeholders and younger generations to preserve the late statesman’s legacy by promoting unity, mutual respect and purposeful leadership.

“While we mourn Baba Fasoranti, we must also celebrate a life well spent in the service of humanity. His longevity was accompanied by a legacy of commitment to his people and the ideals he believed in. We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, Governor Aiyedatiwa, the people of Ondo State and the entire Yoruba nation the strength to overcome this painful moment,” the statement concluded.