‘He Said I’d Be President’: Tinubu Mourns Afenifere Patriarch Fasoranti, Hails Century of Service and Sacrifice

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, following his death at the age of 100, describing him as one of the last surviving titans of the Obafemi Awolowo era whose life was defined by integrity, courage, principled leadership and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and democratic development.

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of foremost Yoruba leader and Afenifere patriarch, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who passed away at the age of 100.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the President described the late nonagenarian as a national icon, elder statesman and one of the most respected voices in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

Tinubu extended condolences on behalf of the Federal Government and the Nigerian people to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure Kingdom, Ondo State, the South-West region and members of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere.

According to the President, Pa Fasoranti’s century-long life embodied discipline, integrity, selflessness and an unshakeable commitment to the progress of both the Yoruba people and the Nigerian nation.

He noted that the late Afenifere leader distinguished himself in public service, first as an educationist and school principal, later as Commissioner for Finance in Ondo State, and ultimately as a leading voice in the struggle for democracy, true federalism and social justice.

Tinubu praised Fasoranti’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, recalling that the elder statesman remained devoted to noble causes even in the face of personal risks and political challenges.

The President also reflected on his personal relationship with the late nationalist, recalling a visit to Fasoranti’s Akure residence in 2022, during which he informed the elder statesman of his decision to contest the presidency.

According to Tinubu, Fasoranti prayed for him and confidently predicted that he would become President during his lifetime.

“Pa Fasoranti told me I would be President in his lifetime, and God answered his prayer,” the President said.

Tinubu revealed that he had hoped the elder statesman would live long enough to witness what he described as the full realisation of his administration’s economic agenda and a possible second term in office.

While mourning his passing, the President urged Nigerians to celebrate Fasoranti’s remarkable legacy of service, patriotism and principled leadership.

He described the late Afenifere leader as a moral compass whose wisdom, fatherly counsel and steadfast voice would be sorely missed at a time the nation continues to navigate significant challenges.

“His life was not merely long, but impactful. He leaves behind indelible footprints in the sands of time,” Tinubu said.

The President prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul and for strength and comfort for his family, associates and countless admirers.