FASORANTI’S STATE BURIAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN AJULO PLEDGES DIGNIFIED FAREWELL
…Commends Aiyedatiwa’s Plans Towards Befitting Home-going
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and Chairman of the State Burial Committee for the late elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON, has commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to honouring the revered nationalist with a befitting state burial that celebrates his life of service, recognises his enduring legacy and preserves his ideals for generations to come.
Dr Ajulo made the remarks on Thursday in Akure while reacting to the constitution of the State Burial Committee by Governor Aiyedatiwa to coordinate the burial arrangements for the prominent national figure, who passed away at the age of 100.
The committee, as announced by the state government, is charged with working closely with the Fasoranti family and the leadership of Afenifere to organise a dignified and befitting state burial in honour of the late elder statesman’s immense contributions to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria.
The committee also comprises Hon. Gbenga Fasua, Mr Gbenga Atiba, Mrs Kosemani Kolawole, Rt. Hon. Bakkita Bello, Hon. Idowu Otetubi, Erelu Modupe Martins, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Mr George Asonja, Esq., Mr Muyiwa Ogunyemi, Hon. Stephen Abitogun and Mr Adetunji Gbenga, with Apostle Eniola Olushola serving as secretary.
The Chairman said the state burial would serve as a solemn and dignified tribute to a life distinguished by principle, courage, selflessness and an abiding commitment to the common good.
He noted that Pa Fasoranti occupied a significant place in the political and social history of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria, having devoted considerable years of his life to public service and the pursuit of a society founded on justice, accountability, democratic values and responsible leadership.
Dr Ajulo also noted that Governor Aiyedatiwa holds Pa Fasoranti in the highest esteem, regarding the revered nationalist as a father figure and often describing himself as his first son. He said that, during the elder statesman’s lifetime, the Governor made it a point of duty to visit him regularly, check on his wellbeing and seek his counsel on matters concerning the development and progress of Ondo State.
“This enduring relationship between Baba and Governor Aiyedatiwa reflected the Governor’s deep respect for Baba’s wisdom, experience and contributions to public life. In fact, in recognition of his remarkable legacy, the Governor also honoured him with the Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honour bestowed during the state’s 50th anniversary celebration.” The AG said.
According to the Commissioner, the responsibility entrusted to the committee extends beyond the organisation of burial ceremonies. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values of the departed elder statesman and reaffirm their relevance to present and future generations.
He observed that the true measure of honouring a distinguished life lies not only in the dignity accorded its departure, but also in the willingness of succeeding generations to preserve and advance the principles that defined it.
Dr Ajulo expressed appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for the confidence reposed in the committee and the importance attached to ensuring that the final rites reflect the stature, contributions and historical significance of Pa Fasoranti.
He further acknowledged the need for close collaboration with the bereaved family, traditional institutions, political leaders, community representatives and other stakeholders to ensure that the arrangements are conducted with dignity, sensitivity and the solemnity befitting the occasion.
The Chairman called on all well-meaning Nigerians to join in honouring the late elder statesman, stressing that his legacy transcends political affiliations and speaks to the enduring importance of integrity, principled leadership, service and commitment to the collective good.
He emphasised that Pa Fasoranti’s passing should be not merely an occasion for mourning, but also a moment of national reflection on the responsibilities of leadership, the value of public service and the duty of every generation to bequeath a better society to those who follow. He added that the values the revered elder statesman left behind must continue to guide the living and enrich the nation’s collective heritage.
The committee, he assured, would discharge its responsibility with the utmost sense of duty and respect, working towards a befitting farewell that celebrates Pa Fasoranti’s life while ensuring that his good works, ideals and contributions remain a lasting source of inspiration.
