The Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Land, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, has mourned the passing of renowned elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, describing his death at the age of 100 as the end of a golden era of exemplary leadership and selfless service.
The monarch, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said the late Pa Fasoranti’s life was a testament to integrity, discipline, courage, patriotism and unwavering commitment to humanity.
He described the deceased as a custodian of wisdom, a champion of progressive ideals and a respected voice in the struggle for justice, democratic governance and the advancement of the Yoruba people.
Oba Aladelusi noted that Pa Fasoranti made enduring contributions to education, public administration and Nigeria’s democratic journey, adding that his legacy would continue to inspire generations.
He said the late elder statesman understood the transformative power of education and demonstrated a strong commitment to the development of Ondo State through his public service.
The monarch also commended his steadfastness in defending democratic ideals and advocating a more just and equitable society, particularly through his leadership of the Afenifere socio-political organisation.
Speaking on the late statesman’s aspirations for Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladelusi said Pa Fasoranti had hoped to see the commencement of the long-awaited teaching hospital of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), as well as the upgrading of the 69-year-old College of Agriculture, Akure, to a full-fledged university.
He added that the late elder statesman also desired the emergence of an indigene of Akure, from Akure North, Akure South or Ifedore Local Government Areas, as governor of Ondo State.
The monarch said Pa Fasoranti’s death was a monumental loss to Akure Land, Ondo State and Nigeria, describing him as a father figure who stood firm in defending his people, the Yoruba race and the interests of the nation.
Oba Aladelusi extended his condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the government and people of Ondo State, the Afenifere family and all Nigerians mourning the loss.
He, however, noted that although the elder statesman had departed, the ideals he upheld and the footprints he left behind would continue to guide future generations.
“ A life devoted to service does not end with death; it lives on through the institutions strengthened, the lives touched and the principles defended,” the monarch said.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased eternal rest and give his family, Akure Land, Ondo State and the entire Yoruba nation the fortitude to bear the loss.
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