Senate seeks institution named after Fasoranti

By Henry Umoru ABUJA — The Senate has called on the Federal Government to immortalise the late elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, by naming an educational institution after him in recognition of his contributions to education and national development. The Senate made the call on Wednesday while mourning Fasoranti, who died on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.

The lawmakers observed a minute’s silence in his honour and resolved to send a delegation to convey the Senate’s condolences to his family and the people of Ondo State. The resolutions followed the consideration of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC, Ondo Central), titled, “The Demise of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, the Foremost Leader of Pan-Yoruba Socio-Political Organisation, Afenifere, and a Revered Political Leader from Akure, Ondo State.” Presenting the motion, Adegbonmire said Fasoranti left behind a legacy of service to humanity and significant contributions to Nigeria.

Born on May 11, 1926, in Akure, Ondo State, Fasoranti had a professional background in education, which, according to the senator, influenced his approach to governance and commitment to human welfare. Adegbonmire noted that the late elder statesman established Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School, among other educational institutions, contributing to the development of education in Ondo State.

He said Fasoranti emerged as leader of Afenifere after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya. The senator also recalled that Fasoranti was a committed follower of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, leader of the Action Group during the First Republic, and later associated with the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic. He was also a founding member of the Alliance for Democracy.

Fasoranti served as commissioner for finance in the old Ondo State under the administration of the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1985. Adegbonmire described him as a respected elder statesman whose life was defined by service, integrity and commitment to the Yoruba people and Nigeria. He said Fasoranti was among prominent Nigerians who opposed military rule and advocated the restoration of democratic governance.

The senator added that the deceased remained steadfast in the struggle for democracy, spoke truth to power and promoted collaboration among socio-political groups, including Arewa and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in pursuit of a united and prosperous Nigeria. He said Fasoranti’s death marked the end of a remarkable era, but his legacy of principled leadership, wisdom and dedication to national progress would continue to inspire future generations.

Adegbonmire also prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and strength for his family, the Afenifere organisation, Ondo State and the country to bear the loss. Contributing to the debate, Senator Jide Ipinsagba (APC, Ondo North) supported the motion, describing Fasoranti as an advocate of educational development who also promoted peace in Yorubaland and across Nigeria.