Elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the aegis of The PBAT Mandate Elders Forum, Ondo State, has described the demise of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the Afenifere leader, as the exit of a towering figure whose life enriched Ondo State, the Yoruba nation, and Nigeria.

In a condolence message issued on behalf of the Forum, Chief Demola Ijabiyi said Pa Fasoranti’s passing marked the end of an era and the loss of a leader whose decades of public service left an indelible mark on the political history of the state and the country.

Recalling their shared political journey under the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ijabiyi said his association with the deceased stretched back several decades, including their memorable service under the late governor.

During the 1982/83 election campaign, Pa Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance and was in charge of the re-election campaign, while Chief Ijabiyi stated that he served as campaign manager.

“Pa Fasoranti was the right-hand man of the late sage and one of his most trusted pillars. Together, they administered the old Ondo State with integrity, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.

“The administration’s monumental achievements became a reference point against which successive administrations in the State have been measured,” Ijabiyi said.

The forum chairman noted that working alongside Pa Fasoranti gave him the privilege of witnessing his discipline, sound judgment, and devotion to public service.

He emphasized that the late leader understood that public resources were a sacred trust and that government existed to improve the lives of the people.

The Forum observed that Pa Fasoranti brought the same sense of duty to his work as an educationist, public administrator, and political leader, adding that he belonged to a generation whose politics rested on clear principles, personal sacrifice, and service to the common good.

“His participation in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and the struggle against military rule further demonstrated his courage and commitment to constitutional government.

“At a difficult period in Nigeria’s history, he stood with others who demanded the restoration of democracy. As a leader of Afenifere, Pa Fasoranti remained a respected voice for Yoruba unity, justice, equity, true federalism, and national progress. His quiet dignity and consistency of purpose earned him respect across generations, Ijabiyi stated.

He further stressed that the Pa Fasoranti’s greatest legacy lay in the values he upheld and the example he set, noting that at 100, he had completed a remarkable earthly journey.

“We mourn because we shall miss his presence, wisdom, and fatherly counsel. We also give thanks to Almighty God for a long and purposeful life devoted to worthy causes. The most fitting tribute we can pay him is to uphold the integrity, discipline, and commitment to public welfare that defined his life.

“Political leaders and younger generations must learn from his example and recognize that lasting honor comes through service,” he said.