PA FASORANTI WAS AN EMBODIMENT OF PEACE, WISDOM, HUMILITY, AND PROGRESS – KOLA ADEMUJIMI
I join millions of Nigerians to celebrate the glorious and fulfilled life of our father’s r, elder statesman, progressive leader, former Commissioner for Finance in Ondo State and National Leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural & political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, OFR.
Baba was a gentleman to the core; an embodiment of peace, love, wisdom, humility, and progress.
He was exceptionally friendly and had the remarkable ability to remember people’s first names after meeting them once or twice, a testament to his humility and genuine affection for people.
As Commissioner for Finance under the administration of our first executive governor, the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, Baba contributed to laying the foundation for the development of modern Ondo State.
Despite limited resources, that administration pursued ambitious developmental programmes and promoted industrial and institutional growths for the benefit of the people.
The Government established Ondo State University at Ado-Ekiti, which had become 2 different State Universities , Ekiti State University ( EKSU), and Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko ( AAUA).
Baba Fasoranti was also a courageous democrat who stood firmly against military dictatorship.
During the regimes of Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha, he and his Afenifere colleagues risked their lives in the struggle for democracy, particularly in opposing the annulment of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
Beyond the struggle for democracy, Baba remained an unwavering advocate of restructuring Nigeria.
He believed that excessive centralisation of power hindered national development and consistently championed greater political and financial autonomy for subnational governments, state police, and a stronger federal system.
His participation in the 2014 National Conference further demonstrated his enduring commitment to building a better Nigeria.
As though in furtherance of Pa Fasoranti’s advocacy, we are encouraged by ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly those relating to local government autonomy and the strengthening of subnational governance.
We pray that these efforts will advance the ideals for which Baba and his associates laboured throughout their lives.
Though Baba will not be physically present to witness the full realisation of these dreams, we thank Almighty God that he lived a purposeful and impactful life. He came, he saw, and he conquered.
We pray that God will comfort his children and the entire family, using Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, the Secretary to the Government of Ondo State, as a point of contact.
May God also comfort the government and people of Ondo State through our amiable Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and particularly our people in Akure South Local Government Area.
Adieu, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, OFR. You fought a good fight, defended democracy, and devoted your life to the progress of your people and Nigeria.
Your legacy of courage, integrity, and progressive leadership will endure for generations.
If you are privileged to meet our departed heroes in heaven, please extend our warm regards to the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, with whom you worked for the development of Ondo State.
Rest peacefully, Baba. Your life was meaningful, your service invaluable, and your legacy everlasting.May Almighty God grant your soul eternal rest and comfort all those you have left behind.
Sir Chief Dr. Kola Ademujimi, former Chief of Staff to Ondo State Governor (2009 – 2017)
