The Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has described the passing of the National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as a huge loss to Nigeria.

According to the Minister, the country has lost a true leader and an enduring symbol of its democratic journey.

Tunji-Ojo, in a condolence message personally signed and made available to the newsmen on Wednesday, stated Pa Fasoranti’s century of existence was anchored on selfless service and stood as a testament to principled leadership.

He noted that the late elder statesman was a lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and a longstanding leader of Afenifere, who stood firm for justice, true federalism and the dignity of the Yoruba people while remaining a steadfast voice for national unity and democratic values.

The Minister further stressed that Pa Fasoranti’s contributions to the political evolution of Ondo State and Nigeria remain indelible, emphasising that his wisdom and moral clarity will be greatly missed.

Tunji-Ojo recalled that only recently, dignitaries gathered in Lagos to celebrate the elder statesman’s centenary, a rare honour that underscored the depth of respect he commanded across generations and political divides.

“With a heavy heart, I join the nation in mourning the departure of our revered elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, CFR, at the age of 100. In him, Nigeria has lost a true leader and an enduring symbol of our democratic journey.

“Pa Fasoranti’s century of existence was anchored on selfless service; a life that stands as a testament to principled leadership. A lifelong disciple of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and a longstanding leader of Afenifere, he stood firm for justice, true federalism, and the dignity of the Yoruba people while remaining a steadfast voice for national unity and democratic values,” the minister stated.

The Minister, who extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Ondo State, the entire Afenifere family and all who drew inspiration from the deceased’s exemplary life, stressed that “The celebration of a life well lived now turns to solemn reflection. His wisdom and moral clarity will be greatly missed in Nigeria’s political landscape.

“May the Almighty grant his soul eternal rest and comfort those he left behind. Adieu, Pa Fasoranti. Your legacy of courage, service, and integrity endures,” he added