By Ademola Adekusibe
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the death of Baba Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the Afenifere leader and elder statesman who died at the age of 100, describing him as an icon of principle and one of the last great figures of the progressive political tradition associated with Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Tinubu expressed his condolences in a State House statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, extending his sympathies to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure, the Ondo State Government, residents of South-West Nigeria and members of Afenifere.
The President said Baba Reuben Fasoranti’s life exemplified integrity, discipline, selflessness and an enduring commitment to the Yorùbá people and Nigeria’s unity and progress.
He recalled Baba’s career as an educationist and school principal, his service as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, and his leadership of Afenifere, the socio-political organisation associated with the progressive Yorùbá political tradition.
According to Tinubu, Baba Reuben Fasoranti remained committed to true federalism, social justice and the pursuit of a Nigeria that works for all, adding that his contributions extended beyond politics to the struggle for democracy.
The President described the late elder statesman as a man who risked his life in the fight for the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today. He said the country would miss Baba’s wisdom, moral authority and fatherly counsel, particularly at a time when his guidance was still needed.
Tinubu also recalled visiting Baba Reuben Fasoranti at his residence in Akure in 2022 to inform him of his decision to contest the presidency. According to the President, Baba prayed for his success and expressed confidence that he would become President during his lifetime.
Tinubu said the elder statesman’s prayer was fulfilled, adding that he had hoped Baba would live to witness the completion of his second term and the economic growth and prosperity his administration seeks to achieve.
The President further recalled celebrating Baba Reuben Fasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, describing the centenary as an opportunity to celebrate not only his longevity but also a lifetime of honour and service.
He said the late Afenifere leader had left an enduring mark on Nigeria’s political history through his commitment to public service, progressive ideals and the advancement of the Yorùbá people.
Tinubu expressed gratitude for Baba Reuben Fasoranti’s long life, describing it as one marked by service, grace and fulfilment. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the elder statesman’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and all those mourning his death.