Fasoranti’s Death As a Contemporary of Late Edwin Clark Closes Major Chapter in Nigeria’s Progressive Politics — PANDEF

 

YENAGOA — The death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, former National Leader of Afenifere, has closed a significant chapter in Nigeria’s progressive political history, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has declared.

PANDEF said the late Yoruba leader, who died on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100, left behind an enduring legacy of principled leadership, democratic accountability and advocacy for a more just and equitable Nigerian federation.

In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador GodKnows Bolade

i Igali, PhD, OON, the Niger Delta socio-political organisation described Fasoranti as a statesman whose political convictions and commitment to national development transcended regional boundaries.

The forum drew attention to the historical significance of Fasoranti’s passing, particularly his place among Nigeria’s elder statesmen who dedicated their lives to progressive politics, national unity and the struggle for a fairer federation.

His death also brings renewed reflection on the legacies of prominent regional leaders, including the late Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, whose political activism and advocacy for the rights of the Niger Delta left an enduring imprint on Nigeria’s political landscape.

PANDEF noted that Fasoranti remained an unwavering advocate of progressive values, drawing inspiration from the political philosophy of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose ideas on federalism, social justice, education and accountable governance shaped generations of political leaders.

His decades of service as an educationist and accomplished school principal, the forum observed, demonstrated his commitment to human development long before his emergence as a leading voice in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

The organisation particularly commended his advocacy for restructuring, true federalism, devolution of power and democratic accountability, describing these principles as essential to building a stable, inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.

According to PANDEF, Fasoranti’s political engagement reflected a longstanding conviction that Nigeria’s diverse ethnic nationalities could achieve lasting unity only through a federal arrangement founded on justice, equity and mutual respect.

The forum also recalled his leadership of Afenifere during periods of internal disagreement and consensus-building, noting that he remained a respected voice in national conversations about the country’s constitutional future.

It said his contribution to Nigeria’s democratic development extended beyond the Yoruba nation, as his advocacy for restructuring and accountable government resonated with other regional groups seeking a more balanced federation.

PANDEF maintained that the passing of the elder statesman was not merely a loss to the Yoruba people but also a significant moment for Nigerians who believe in the rule of law, democratic governance and a political system that recognises the country’s diversity.

The forum extended its condolences to the Fasoranti family, Afenifere, the Akure Kingdom, Ondo State and the entire Yoruba nation, urging them to take solace in the late leader’s contributions to society and his enduring commitment to public service.

It further expressed the hope that Fasoranti’s ideals would continue to inspire political leaders, civil society organisations and younger generations committed to building a more democratic and equitable country.

PANDEF prayed that God would grant the departed elder statesman eternal rest, describing his passing as a solemn moment for Nigeria’s progressive movement and a reminder of the enduring importance of principled leadership in the nation’s political development.