Pa Reuben Fasoranti, national leader of Afenifere and close ally of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has died at the age of 100, closing a monumental chapter in Nigerian politics.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the death of the elder statesman, who passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Born on May 11, 1926, in Uso, Ondo State, Fasoranti lived through colonial rule, independence, military dictatorships, and decades of civilian governance.
From village boy to master educator
Fasoranti pursued education at Ondo Boys’ High School, Yaba Higher College, and University College, Ibadan, where he studied English and Geography.
He later earned postgraduate degrees in education from the University of Hull in Britain and Macquarie University in Australia.
Devoting decades to teaching, he served as the founding principal of Anglican Grammar School, Iju-Itaogbolu, in 1957. Alongside his late wife, he also established private institutions including Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School.
Disciple of Awolowo and public service
Fasoranti’s political journey began while teaching at Iju-Itaogbolu, where he was inspired by the campaigns of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Joining the Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria, he became a core pillar of Awolowo’s progressive movement.
In 1979, Ondo State Governor Michael Ajasin appointed Fasoranti commissioner for finance. He helped implement Awolowo’s social welfare policies, encompassing free education, accessible healthcare, and rural development, even accepting the government takeover of his own private school without compensation.
Following the military coup of December 1983, Fasoranti joined pro-democracy movements, including the National Democratic Coalition, opposing military rule after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Personal losses of Pa Reuben Fasoranti
Fasoranti endured profound personal trials, notably remaining a widower for over three decades following his wife’s passing in 1991.
In 2019, tragedy struck again when his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, was killed by gunmen in Ondo State.
After the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya, Fasoranti emerged as a principal leader of Afenifere, championing restructuring and regional autonomy.
In his later years, he navigated fierce internal debates regarding political endorsements, notably backing Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election and a subsequent caucus endorsement for the 2027 second term.
Fasoranti leaves behind a legacy of dedicated public service, educational advancement, and unwavering commitment to the progressive ideals of Western Nigeria.
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