Aiyedatiwa: Pa Fasoranti’s Death Should Be Celebrated, Not Mourned

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, should be an occasion to celebrate his remarkable life and contributions to society rather than mourn his passing.

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Fasoranti, a prominent Yoruba socio-political leader and elder statesman, died at the age of 100.

Aiyedatiwa made the remarks during a condolence visit to the deceased’s residence, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan.

The governor described Fasoranti as an exceptional elder statesman whose wisdom, experience and influence remained valuable until his final days, noting that he continued to contribute to government decisions despite his advanced age.

“Even at that age, Baba was still influencing decisions of government. That is to tell you that he was still mentally sound,” Aiyedatiwa said.

He described the late Afenifere leader as a distinguished educator whose influence extended across generations, adding that many people he mentored had grown into prominent personalities in Nigeria and beyond.

According to the governor, Fasoranti’s humility, kindness, calm disposition and ability to translate ideas into action made him a remarkable figure whose life deserved to be celebrated.

“We cannot but celebrate his life and times. We are not mourning. We are just celebrating and thanking God for a life that was well lived,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa also expressed gratitude that the elder statesman died peacefully, praying that his family and those who benefited from his guidance would continue to uphold his values and contribute positively to society.

Meanwhile, the Secretary to the Ondo State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, said the family had chosen to celebrate their father’s life rather than mourn his death.

Taiwo disclosed that his father often told family members he had a covenant with God to live until the age of 100. He said the elder statesman repeatedly instructed them not to cry when he eventually passed away.

“We are not mourning Baba. We are rejoicing. Baba has left us a big pair of shoes to step into, but we can only thank God for the legacy of firmness, resilience, hard work and love that he left us with,” he said.

The SSG described his father as a devoted parent who remained actively involved in his children’s lives, from their elementary education through university.

He said the family would greatly miss Fasoranti’s presence and wise counsel, describing him as a man who spoke little but communicated effectively.

Taiwo appealed to Nigerians to pray for the family as they adjust to life without the late patriarch and confront the responsibility of preserving his legacy.

The governor was accompanied on the condolence visit by Deputy Governor Dr Olayide Adelami, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Chief Segun Odusanya and other government officials, alongside traditional rulers and Afenifere leaders.

The tributes underscore Fasoranti’s enduring influence as an educator, community leader and prominent voice in Yoruba socio-political affairs.