10 Things to Know About Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Afenifere Leader Who Died at 100

Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the respected Yoruba leader, educationist, politician, and pro-democracy activist, has died at the age of 100.

Fasoranti, who was the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. His death was announced by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

As tributes pour in for the elder statesman, here are 10 important facts about his life, political career, and contributions to Nigeria.

1. He Was Born in 1926Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti was born on May 11, 1926. He celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, marking a century of life dedicated to education, politics, and public service.
2. He Was a Native of Uso in Ondo StateFasoranti was born in Uso, a community in present-day Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State. Although widely associated with Akure in his public life, his birthplace was Uso.
3. He Was a Trained EducationistBefore becoming a prominent political figure, Fasoranti pursued a career in education. He studied at the University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a degree in English and Geography.He subsequently obtained a postgraduate diploma in Education from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom and a master’s degree in Education Administration and School Management from Macquarie University in Australia.
4. He Established Schools in Ondo StateFasoranti made significant contributions to education through teaching, school administration, and the establishment of educational institutions.Among the schools associated with him were Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School. He also established St. Frances’ Academy in Igoba, Akure, in memory of his late wife.

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1. He Was a Disciple of Chief Obafemi AwolowoFasoranti was a committed follower of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the prominent Nigerian politician and statesman.His political philosophy was influenced by Awolowo’s progressive ideals, particularly in education, governance, and social development.Fasoranti was associated with the Action Group during the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.
2. He Served as Ondo State Commissioner for FinanceBetween 1979 and 1983, Fasoranti served as Commissioner for Finance in the administration of the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, the first civilian governor of the old Ondo State.His appointment reflected the confidence placed in him by the Ajasin administration and his involvement in the progressive political movement associated with Awolowo.
3. He Became a Prominent Leader of AfenifereFasoranti emerged as a leading figure in Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation known for advocating Yoruba interests and progressive governance.Following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya, he became a prominent leader of the organisation and remained an influential voice on issues concerning the Yoruba people and Nigeria.During his years in the organisation, he was associated with calls for restructuring, federalism, good governance, and greater equity in the Nigerian federation.
4. He Opposed Military RuleFasoranti was among the prominent figures associated with the pro-democracy movement that opposed military dictatorship and advocated the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria.During the military era, he remained involved in political advocacy despite the risks associated with opposing military rule.President Bola Tinubu, in a tribute to him on his 100th birthday, recalled the elder statesman’s involvement in the struggle against military dictatorship and an assassination attempt he survived during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha.
5. His Daughter, Funke Olakunrin, Was Killed in 2019Fasoranti suffered a devastating personal tragedy in July 2019 when his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, was killed in an attack along the Ondo-Ore Expressway.Her killing attracted widespread public attention and renewed discussions about insecurity and attacks on travellers in Nigeria.The incident was one of the most painful episodes in the elder statesman’s later years.
6. He Received National Recognition on His 100th BirthdayFasoranti’s 100th birthday on May 11, 2026, attracted tributes from prominent political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu.During the centenary celebration in Akure, Tinubu praised his contributions to education, democracy, and public service. A flyover project in Akure was also named after him by the Ondo State Government.His death on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100 marks the end of a remarkable life spanning colonial rule, Nigeria’s independence, military governments, and the country’s return to democratic governance.Fasoranti leaves behind a legacy associated with education, political activism, and advocacy for the interests of the Yoruba people.

May his soul rest in peace.