Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. (Comrade) Joseph Iranola Akinlaja, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, describing his death as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.
Pa Fasoranti, a respected nationalist, educationist, pro-democracy advocate, and one of the foremost disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, passed away at the age of 100 after a century of impactful service to humanity, democratic ideals, and national development.
In a condolence message he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Akinlaja, a former Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and former General Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), said he received news of the elder statesman’s death with profound sadness but total submission to the will of God.
The former lawmaker described Pa Fasoranti as one of Nigeria’s most principled political leaders, whose life was defined by integrity, courage, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to justice, good governance, and the welfare of the people.
According to Akinlaja, the late Afenifere leader remained a moral compass and a consistent voice of reason throughout his lifetime, earning the admiration and respect of generations of Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious divides.
“The passing of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti is a stark reminder of the transient nature of life. While we take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life and attained the remarkable age of 100, his departure remains a huge loss to humanity and the nation he so passionately served,” Akinlaja stated.
He noted that Pa Fasoranti’s invaluable wisdom, fatherly counsel, political tolerance, advocacy for national cohesion, and steadfast commitment to peace and inclusivity would continue to serve as a guide for current and future leaders.
“Papa Fasoranti was more than a Yoruba leader; he was a national icon and one of the enduring pillars of progressive politics in Nigeria. His life exemplified service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the ideals of democracy and social justice. His invaluable contributions to nation-building and his consistent advocacy for equity and fairness will never be forgotten,” he added.
Akinlaja further described the late statesman as a bridge-builder whose leadership inspired generations of progressive politicians and activists, noting that his legacy would remain deeply ingrained in Nigeria’s democratic history.
The former federal lawmaker called on members of Afenifere, political leaders, and Nigerians at large to honour Pa Fasoranti’s memory by upholding the values he stood for, including integrity, selfless service, courage, and commitment to the common good.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere worldwide, the people of Akure Kingdom, and the government and people of Ondo State, particularly Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
“This is a moment of sober reflection for all of us. Beyond mourning his passing, we must draw inspiration from his exemplary life and strive to leave behind enduring legacies just as Pa Fasoranti did. He lived a life worthy of emulation and dedicated his years to the service of humanity and the advancement of society.
“I pray that Almighty God grants his family, friends, associates, and the entire Yoruba nation the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. May the soul of this distinguished patriot and elder statesman rest in perfect peace,” Akinlaja said.
