The family of late Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, has announced December 17, 2026, for the burial of the renowned nationalist, who died at the age of 100.
Fasoranti, who passed away on October 20, was one of the last prominent links to the generation of Nigerian political leaders shaped by the nationalist struggle and the progressive political philosophy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
According to the funeral programme released by the family through Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Secretary to the Ondo State Government and one of the deceased’s sons, the burial activities will take place in Akure, Ondo State.
The ceremonies will begin with a Christian Wake-Keeping Service on Wednesday, December 16, at 4:00 p.m. at the late statesman’s residence within the Omolere Nursery and Primary School Compound, Akure.
A Funeral Service and Interment will follow on Thursday, December 17, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St David’s Cathedral, Ijomu, Akure.
Interment will take place immediately after the church service at the Cathedral Cemetery, while a reception for invited guests and dignitaries will subsequently be held at Fasoranti’s residence.
The funeral rites will end on Sunday, December 20, with an Outing and Thanksgiving Service at St David’s Cathedral, Ijomu, Akure. The service is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m.
Fasoranti’s death was announced by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who described him as a patriarch and a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service whose century-long life was marked by contributions to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu also paid tribute to the late Afenifere leader, describing him as an icon of principle and one of the last great titans of Awolowo’s progressive political family.
Tinubu recalled that Fasoranti, whom he visited in Akure in 2022, had told him he would become President during his lifetime.
Born on May 11, 1926, Fasoranti celebrated his 100th birthday earlier this year.
He trained as an educationist, taught in schools in the Ondo-Akure axis and later established educational institutions.
Fasoranti also served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Governor Adekunle Ajasin.
His political career was closely associated with Awolowo’s progressive tradition.
He was involved in the Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria before becoming a leading figure in Afenifere.
The statesman also played a prominent role in the pro-democracy struggle against military rule, including through the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
Afenifere described his death as the departure of an exemplary leader who left behind a legacy of integrity and devotion to the common good.
The Fasoranti family has therefore urged friends, associates, political leaders and well-wishers to join them in prayers and attendance as they celebrate the life and legacy of the late statesman.
