WHEN THE IROKO CHOSE THE SUNSET: FAREWELL TO A CUSTODIAN OF CONSCIENCE, CHIEF REUBEN FASORANTI
By Dr. Felix Babatunde Ale
The news of the passage of Chief Reuben Fasoranti came to me not merely as the loss of a renowned elder statesman, but as the closing of a remarkable chapter in the history of Akure, Ondo State, Yorubaland and indeed Nigeria.
His departure is, without doubt, the end of an era. A mighty Iroko tree has fallen, leaving behind a landscape forever transformed by its towering presence, enduring shade and deep roots.
Many tributes have deservedly poured in from far and near, celebrating his contributions to public service, progressive politics, education, nation-building and the Yoruba struggle for justice and equity.
Yet, beyond the public image of the revered leader of Afenifere was a man of exceptional warmth, simplicity, loyalty and uncommon humanity.
It is this personal side of Pa Fasoranti that I choose to remember and celebrate.
As a young journalist at the Ondo State Radiovision Corporation (OSRC), I was privileged to have numerous encounters and interviews with Chief Fasoranti, particularly as one of the anchors of the then highly popular weekend magazine programme, Sunday Splash.
Those interview sessions were more than professional assignments. They became rare opportunities to learn at the feet of a man whose thoughts flowed with wisdom, conviction, courage and patriotism.
What amazed me over the years was his extraordinary memory and deep appreciation of relationships. Even in his advanced age, Chief Fasoranti remembered my various visitations to him for interviews as though they had taken place only yesterday.
Such was the strength of his mind and the depth of his affection for people. In a world where many easily forget those who once crossed their paths, Pa Fasoranti remained remarkably different.
Only last year, Chief Fasoranti took some steps on my behalf in acknowledgement of the age-long relationship I had enjoyed with him over the decades.
That gesture touched me profoundly and remains one of the countless examples of his thoughtful and compassionate nature. It is an act I can never forget so soon. Indeed, the relationship between us over the years transcended the boundaries of journalism and public engagement.
It evolved into what can best be described as a father-and-son relationship, built on mutual respect, affection and trust.
For this reason, I mourn him not only as a national icon and political leader, but also as a personal mentor, benefactor and father figure whose encouragement and kindness enriched my life immeasurably.
Chief Fasoranti belonged to that rare generation of leaders whose lives were their greatest messages. He demonstrated that leadership is not measured by titles held but by lives touched.
He walked through life with humility despite his immense influence. Power never changed him, prominence never separated him from the people and age never dimmed his passion for justice and good governance.
The American civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr., once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Chief Fasoranti passed this test with distinction.
Through difficult seasons in Nigeria’s political history, he remained steadfast in his convictions, fearless in defending justice and unwavering in his commitment to truth.
Similarly, Ralph Waldo Emerson observed that “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, honourable and compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
Few Nigerians exemplified these virtues more completely than Pa Fasoranti. His life made a difference. His voice inspired courage. His example nurtured hope. His character commanded respect.
His death leaves a painful vacuum, yet it also leaves behind a rich legacy of service and honour.
Future generations will continue to draw inspiration from his steadfast commitment to integrity, principled leadership and communal progress. His life teaches us that character remains the most enduring monument any human being can build.
As I mourn this irreplaceable loss, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his beloved children, members of the Fasoranti family and the entire people of Akure Kingdom.
They have not merely lost a father, grandfather and community leader. They have lost a living institution whose influence transcended generations.
I equally commiserate with his devoted Personal Assistant, Mr. Biola Adedapo, who served Chief Fasoranti faithfully for about twenty-two years.
Those who observed their relationship closely would readily agree that it went far beyond official duties.
It was a bond rooted in trust, loyalty and genuine affection, very much like that between a father and a son. Mr. Adedapo stood beside Pa Fasoranti through many seasons, sharing in his daily engagements, challenges and triumphs.
Without doubt, he will greatly miss the presence, guidance and fatherly affection of the late Afenifere leader.
The life of Chief Fasoranti is rich with lessons and inspiration for present and future generations.
He taught us that public office is a platform for service, not self-glorification. He taught us that integrity is more valuable than wealth and that principles are worth defending regardless of personal cost. Above all, he taught us that a life devoted to others never truly ends.
Today, the voice that spoke truth with courage has become still. The hands that nurtured generations have been folded in eternal rest.
The heart that beat ceaselessly for justice, progress and the welfare of his people has completed its earthly assignment.
Yet, men like Chief Reuben Fasoranti do not truly die. Their physical departure only elevates them into the realm of enduring memory and immortal influence. Long after the mourning has faded, his convictions will continue to speak. Long after the tears have dried, his example will continue to guide. Long after the grave has closed, his legacy will continue to blossom in the lives of those he inspired.
As the people of Akure, Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria mourn this monumental loss, may we find solace in the fact that Pa Fasoranti lived a life worthy of celebration and emulation.
He came, he served, he inspired and he conquered the limitations of time through the nobility of his character.
Indeed, a mighty Iroko has fallen, not only in Akure, not only in Ondo State, not only in Yorubaland, but across the entire Nigerian nation. But even in falling, it continues to provide shade. Even in death, it continues to teach.
Even in silence, it continues to speak.
May the Almighty God forgive his shortcomings, accept his good works and grant him eternal rest among the righteous.
May He comfort his children, the Fasoranti family, Mr. Biola Adedapo, the people of Akure, the Afenifere family and all Nigerians whose lives were touched by this extraordinary patriot.
Sleep on, Papa Fasoranti.
Sleep on, father of many generations.
Sleep on, fearless custodian of truth, justice and the collective conscience of a people.
The Iroko may have bowed to eternity, but its roots will continue to nourish generations yet unborn.
Your sunset on earth has become your sunrise in history.
Adieu, Chief Reuben Fasoranti.
Your memory shall remain evergreen, your legacy indestructible and your name forever inscribed in the golden pages of our national journey.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
