The Governor of Lagos State and Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the demise of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, as the end of an era.
He said the glorious exit of Pa Fasoranti, a respected elder statesman, educationist and progressive who died on Tuesday at the age of 100, is a big loss to the Yoruba people and Nigeria at large.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message he personally signed, described the late Pa Fasoranti as a committed leader and a symbol of wisdom, integrity and selfless service who served the Yoruba people and Nigeria passionately.
He also commiserated with his Ondo State counterpart, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Government and people of Ondo State, particularly the people of Akure Kingdom; the Fasoranti family and members of Afenifere.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “On behalf of my family, the Government and people of Lagos State, as well as my brother Governors in the South-West, I commiserate with the Fasoranti family, Afenifere members and the entire people of Yorubaland over the departure of our respected leader and elder statesman, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
“Baba Fasoranti was a respected and passionate statesman whose contributions to education, leadership and public service remain indelible. He impacted many lives positively through courageous and uncompromising leadership. His commitment to public service and community development was commendable.
“Pa Fasoranti, during his lifetime, made a lot of positive impact in Yorubaland and Nigeria. He did great exploits as the leader of Afenifere by steering the ship of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation in the right direction.
“We cherish Pa Fasoranti’s commitment to fighting for truth, equity, justice, true federalism and good governance, which he championed for many decades during his lifetime.
“I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Pa Reuben Fasoranti. May God grant the deceased’s family, loved ones, and the Yoruba people the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of the centenarian.”
