Ondo governor visits family, hails late Afenifere leader’s wisdom, humility
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has paid glowing tributes to the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing him as a symbol of humility, kindness and wisdom whose influence on governance remained strong until his death at 100.
The governor spoke on Tuesday night when he visited the family of the late elder statesman at his residence in Akure, the Ondo State capital, to offer his condolences.
Aiyedatiwa said he was shocked by the news of Fasoranti’s death despite his advanced age, noting that the nonagenarian-turned-centenarian remained mentally alert and continued to contribute to government decisions.
“Even at that age, Baba was still influencing decisions of government. That is to tell you that he was still mentally sound,” the governor said.
He described Fasoranti as an accomplished educationist whose influence transcended generations, adding that many people shaped by his teachings and values had risen to prominence in different parts of the world.
According to the governor, the late Afenifere leader lived a fulfilled life worthy of celebration rather than prolonged mourning.
“We cannot but celebrate his life and times. We are not mourning. We are just celebrating and thanking God for a life that was well lived,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa also praised Fasoranti’s calm disposition, humility, kindness and ability to develop and implement ideas, describing him as a man whose wisdom and inner strength earned him respect across generations.
He said the elder statesman’s death was peaceful, without the prolonged illness and frequent hospital visits that often accompany old age.
“He slept, and that was it,” the governor said, praying that the family and other Nigerians would uphold the values the deceased represented and continue to contribute meaningfully to society.
Responding on behalf of the family, the late elder statesman’s son, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, who is the Secretary to the Ondo State Government, thanked Aiyedatiwa for the visit.
Taiwo said the family had chosen to celebrate their father’s life and legacy rather than mourn his death, recalling that the deceased often spoke about his desire to live until the age of 100.
He said his father repeatedly told family members that he had a covenant with God to depart at 100 and instructed them not to cry when his time came.
“We are not mourning Baba. We are rejoicing. Baba has left us a big pair of shoes to step into, but we can only thank God for the legacy of firmness, resilience, hard work and love that he left us with,” he said.
The SSG described his father as a devoted parent who remained actively involved in his children’s upbringing and education, from their elementary school days through university.
He said the family would deeply miss Fasoranti’s presence, guidance and wise counsel, describing him as a man who communicated effectively without saying much.
Taiwo acknowledged the challenge of filling the vacuum created by his father’s death and appealed to the public to continue praying for the family as it adjusts to the loss.
Aiyedatiwa was accompanied on the visit by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya; and the member representing Ondo East/Ondo West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abiola Mankinde.
Members of the Ondo State Executive Council were also part of the delegation.
Others present at the residence included former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Abdulazeez Oluboyo; the Olu of Ilu Abo, Oba Olu Falae; the Iresi of Osi, Oba Samuel Olajide Okunato; Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua; and Afenifere chieftains, Chief Femi Aluko and Chief Korede Duyile.
