Daniel: Fasoranti’s death ‘a monumental loss for Yorubaland, Nigeria’

*OGD mourns leader Afenifere

Otunba Gbenga Daniel has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Afenifere national leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing his death at the age of 100 as a monumental loss to Yorubaland and Nigeria. Daniel, who has long considered the centenarian a father figure and moral compass, noted that Baba Fasoranti lived a century characterized by integrity, courage and unwavering service to the progressive cause.

Reflecting on their personal bond, Daniel recalled his visit to Pa Fasoranti’s residence in 2019 to commiserate with him over the tragic murder of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, where he commended the nonagenarian for his resilience and for continuing to provide much-needed leadership for the Yoruba race despite personal pain, describing him as one of the few remaining leaders who are truly passionate about the national existence.

Daniel also remembered Pa Fasoranti as the embodiment of the Omoluabi ethic. During the Afenifere leader’s 99th birthday lecture in Akure, Daniel had declared that “Pa Fasoranti’s life is the embodiment of the Omoluabi ideal, of integrity, wisdom, courage and community service”, stressing that it was not just his longevity that mattered, but the immense value he had added to that long life through selfless leadership.

The former Ogun State governor noted that Baba Fasoranti’s transition marks the end of an era for the Awolowo political family. He urged the family, the people of Ondo State and the entire people of Afenifere to take solace in the fact that the patriarch left indelible imprints of honor, having fought for democracy and true federalism until his last days, leaving a legacy worthy of emulation by future generations.

Otunba Daniel concluded by praying that God would grant the gentle soul of Pa Fasoranti eternal rest and give the family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss, while expressing hope that the ideals of unity and ethical rebirth advocated by Baba will continue to guide the Yoruba race.