Nigeria has lost a patriot, Akpabio mourns Fasoranti

File: National Leader of Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday mourned the National Leader of Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti.

He described the late Afenifere leader as a patriot and elder statesman whose legacy of service and integrity would continue to inspire generations.

Fasoranti died at the age of 100.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio described the death as a major loss to Fasoranti’s family, the Yoruba nation and Nigeria.

He said the late Afenifere leader belonged to a generation of leaders whose lives were defined by service, strong convictions and commitment to the common good.

The Senate President said Fasoranti made lasting contributions to Nigeria’s socio-political development, democratic governance and the pursuit of justice.

He added that Fasoranti’s legacy transcended ethnic and political boundaries, stressing that his life demonstrated the importance of principled leadership, constructive engagement and respect for democratic ideals.

“Pa Reuben Fasoranti was one of those rare elder statesmen whose lives embodied the wisdom of experience and the strength of conviction. His passing is a painful loss, not only to his immediate family and the Yoruba people, but also to the entire Nigerian nation.

• 2027: Aiyedatiwa backs door-to-door campaign for Tinubu
• Afenifere leader Fasoranti dies at 100, Tinubu, Obasanjo mourn
• Senate confirms ex-sports minister Ndanusa as ambassador

“At 100, Baba Fasoranti leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, courage and fidelity to his convictions. His life reminds us that true leadership is measured not merely by the positions we occupy, but by the values we uphold, the people we serve and the positive impact we leave on society.

“Though he has departed, the principles he stood for and the example he set will continue to inspire generations of Nigerians,” Akpabio said.

He extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, Afenifere leaders and members, the people of Akure, the Ondo State Government and the Yoruba nation.

Akpabio urged the bereaved family to take solace in the fact that Fasoranti lived a long and consequential life, leaving behind a legacy worthy of emulation.

He also prayed that God would grant the family the strength to bear the loss and the deceased eternal rest.

“May the memory of Pa Reuben Fasoranti remain a source of inspiration, and may his life of service continue to remind us of our collective responsibility to build a just, united and prosperous Nigeria,” the Senate President added.