Ooni Pays Tribute To Pa Fasoranti, Says Yoruba Race Has Lost A Pillar Of Wisdom
The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has paid tribute to the late elder statesman and National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died at the age of 100.
The tribute message was contained in a statement on Wednesday issued by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare.
The Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) described the passing of the centenarian as a profound loss to the Yoruba race and Nigeria, noting that his life was marked by dedicated service, wisdom, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of his people.
The Ooni said Pa Fasoranti belonged to a generation of respected leaders whose contributions to the political development of Nigeria, the preservation of Yoruba identity and the struggle for democratic governance would remain significant in the nation’s history.
He noted that the late Afenifere leader’s commitment to justice, good governance, equity and the welfare of the Yoruba people reflected the enduring values of responsible leadership and service to humanity.
Ooni Ogunwusi further observed that Pa Fasoranti’s influence extended beyond his leadership of Afenifere, as his decades of public service and political engagement made him a respected voice in discussions concerning the future of Yorubaland and Nigeria.
The Ooni said the late elder statesman’s life offered valuable lessons in patriotism, perseverance and the responsibility of leaders to work towards the collective interest of their people.
He added that the deceased’s legacy would continue to inspire younger generations to embrace integrity, peaceful coexistence, unity and a commitment to the development of their communities.
The Ooni extended his heartfelt condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the people of Akure Kingdom, the government and people of Ondo State, and the entire Yoruba race over the irreparable loss.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed elder statesman and asked Almighty Olodumare to grant his family, associates and admirers the strength to bear the loss.
