Afenifere Announces Fasoranti’s Burial Plans As Oba Falae Leads Delegates To Honour Late Leader

AKURE – The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has firmly dismissed rumours of an internal leadership crisis following the passing of its leader, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti.

The organization declared that its current focus remains entirely on honouring the late centenarian with a glorious farewell.

In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, Afenifere revealed that the Chairman of its National Executive Committee, HRM Oba Olu Falae, is working closely with the Fasoranti family to establish a burial committee.

To mark the traditional eighth day since his passing—a milestone known as Ojo Kejo in Yoruba cosmology—Oba Falae will lead delegates from across all Yoruba-speaking state branches, including Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Lagos, and Ondo, on a formal condolence visit to the family in Akure on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

Addressing speculation regarding who will permanently succeed Chief Fasoranti, Ajayi described any active leadership debate at this time as highly irresponsible and contrary to Yoruba cultural principles.

He assured the public that the organization is fully intact and that official structural details will be disclosed at an appropriate time.

Chief Fasoranti passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the age of 100, just months after celebrating his centenary milestone in May.

The organization has announced the official funeral arrangements as follows:

• Wednesday, December 16, 2026: A Christian wake-keeping service at Omolere Nursery and Primary School premises within the late leader’s estate in Fiwasaye, Akure.

• Thursday, December 17, 2026: The official funeral service at St. David’s Cathedral, Ijomu, Akure, followed immediately by interment at the church’s cemetery. Reception and entertainment of guests will take place at the late leader’s residence.

• Sunday, December 20, 2026: A thanksgiving service at St. David’s Cathedral to conclude the funeral programs.

Reflecting on the transition, Oba Falae described Chief Fasoranti as a beacon of firmness, resilience, and hard work, emphasizing that Afenifere is celebrating a purposeful, fulfilled life rather than mourning.