Fayemi mourns Pa Fasoranti, says Yoruba Nation has lost a Principled Leader.
Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and past Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed grief over the passing of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, leader of Afenifere, describing him as ‘’our father, my school principal under whose influence I grew, and elder statesman whose service, wisdom and principled leadership left an enduring mark on the Yoruba nation and Nigeria.''
In a condolence statement personally signed by him, Fayemi said the passing of Pa Fasoranti represented a significant loss to the Yoruba people, the progressive political tradition and the wider Nigerian community, further noting that the late Afenifere leader distinguished himself through his integrity, fairness and commitment to the welfare of his people.
He described Pa Fasoranti as a leader who carried the enormous responsibility of guiding the Yoruba nation with wisdom, restraint and a deep sense of justice, earning the respect of people across political divides and generations.
“Baba Fasoranti was a remarkable leader whose strength lay not only in his convictions but also in his wisdom, fairness and ability to listen. He understood that leadership, particularly for a people with such a rich history and strong democratic tradition as the Yoruba, demanded patience, courage, inclusiveness and a constant commitment to the common good.
“He provided a steady moral compass at critical moments in our national life and demonstrated that it is possible to remain firm in one's principles while treating others with dignity and fairness. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt,” Fayemi said.
The former governor also paid tribute to the personal mentorship and fatherly counsel he received from Pa Fasoranti over the years, describing their relationship as one of the most valuable influences on his public life.
According to him, the late elder statesman was always willing to share his experience and offer guidance, often providing perspectives that encouraged reflection, moderation and an appreciation of the responsibilities of leadership.
“For me, this loss is deeply personal. Baba Fasoranti was not merely a leader I admired from a distance; he was a mentor and father figure whose counsel I valued immensely. Over the years, I had the privilege of drawing on his wisdom, benefiting from his encouragement and receiving his honest assessment of issues affecting our people and our country.
“His advice was often measured, thoughtful and grounded in enduring principles. He had a way of reminding one that public service must ultimately be judged by its impact on the lives of the people and that no political ambition should supersede the larger interests of society. I will always cherish the guidance he gave me and remain grateful for the privilege of learning from him,” he said.
Fayemi noted that Pa Fasoranti’s legacy extended beyond his leadership of Afenifere to his contributions to education, progressive politics, democratic development and the advancement of the Yoruba people.
He said the late statesman remained an important custodian of the progressive ideals associated with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, particularly the pursuit of social justice, good governance and improvement of the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Fayemi further observed that Pa Fasoranti’s steadfast commitment to democratic values and constitutional government helped sustain the progressive movement through challenging periods in Nigeria’s political history, adding that the late leader’s enduring significance lay not simply in the length of his life but in the values he upheld, the causes he championed and the generations he inspired.
“Baba Fasoranti leaves behind a legacy of courage, integrity, service and devotion to the ideals of justice and good governance. His life reminds us that genuine leadership is not about the pursuit of power or personal recognition, but about the responsibility to serve, the courage to stand by one's convictions and the wisdom to put the interests of the people first.
“The challenge before those of us who remain is to preserve these values and ensure that the ideals for which he stood continue to guide our political and public institutions,” Fayemi said.
The former governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure and Ondo State, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the Yoruba nation and all Nigerians who mourn the passing of the elder statesman.
