Says Nigeria Has Lost A Political Icon
Former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has described the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as the end of an extraordinary chapter in the political and moral history of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
Mimiko said the late centenarian was more than an elder statesman, describing him as a custodian of the political philosophy of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose life was defined by integrity, discipline, courage and selfless service.
In a condolence statement, the former governor said Fasoranti’s contributions to education, public administration, politics and the pro-democracy movement earned him a place among Nigeria’s respected statesmen.
“The passing of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti at the remarkable age of 100 marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the political and moral history of Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria,” Mimiko said.
He recalled Fasoranti’s service as Commissioner for Finance under the administration of the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin, describing it as a reflection of his commitment to accountability and responsible governance.
According to Mimiko, Fasoranti’s leadership of Afenifere until his death demonstrated his lifelong belief that politics should be guided by principles and directed towards improving the welfare of the people.
He said the late Yoruba leader provided consistent and principled guidance to Afenifere and the wider Yoruba political community, while remaining committed to social justice, good governance and federalism.
Mimiko added that Fasoranti advocated the advancement of the Yoruba people within a united and prosperous Nigeria, including those in the diaspora.
“Never for once were personal ambition or greed markers of his leadership philosophy or direction; it was all about fidelity to principle and an abiding concern for the future of the nation,” he said.
The former governor noted that Fasoranti belonged to a generation that regarded public office as a responsibility rather than an avenue for personal enrichment.
He said the elder statesman’s political convictions remained consistent despite changing political circumstances, adding that his courage and sacrifices during the years of military rule offered important lessons for the country.
Mimiko also recalled the personal tragedies Fasoranti endured, including the loss of his wife and daughter, saying he continued to demonstrate remarkable strength and submission to the will of God.
Describing his death as a profound loss to Ondo State, Mimiko said Fasoranti’s long life connected present-day political developments with some of the most significant periods in the state’s history.
“For us in Ondo State, his passing is a profound loss. We have lost a father figure whose long life connected our political present to some of the most consequential chapters of our collective history,” he said.
He stressed that the late Afenifere leader’s legacy went beyond his longevity, noting that his life offered a standard for measuring leadership and public service.
According to Mimiko, Fasoranti’s commitment to institutions, accountability and the public good should inspire younger generations to approach politics with honour and a sense of responsibility.
“At over a century lived on this side, Baba leaves behind more than the memories of a long and eventful life. He leaves a standard by which leadership may be judged and a legacy that challenges younger generations to pursue public life with honour, courage and an abiding sense of responsibility,” he said.
Mimiko extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure, members of Afenifere and all those mourning the late elder statesman.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure, the Afenifere family and all those who mourn this monumental loss. May God grant Baba eternal rest and comfort his family and all who mourn him,” he said.
