VP Shettima Mourns Pa Fasoranti, Says Nigeria Has Lost A Century Of Wisdom, Principled Leadership

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

VP Shettima Mourns Pa Fasoranti, Says Nigeria Has Lost A Century Of Wisdom, Principled Leadership

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, describing his departure as the end of a remarkable chapter in Nigeria’s political and democratic history.

The Vice President said the late patriarch who passed on at the age of 100 belonged to a generation of leaders who understood that public service was a lifelong obligation to society, noting that his century-long journey reflected the struggles, sacrifices and aspirations that shaped modern Nigeria.

In a condolence message on Wednesday, Senator Shettima extended his sympathies to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the government and people of Ondo State, and the entire Yoruba nation.

He said, “There are men who live through history, and there are those whose lives become part of history itself. Pa Reuben Fasoranti belonged to the latter. For a hundred years, he witnessed the changing fortunes of our nation, yet remained steadfast in his convictions and commitment to the common good.

“Baba’s passing reminds us that the true measure of a life is neither the number of years lived nor the offices occupied, but the values transmitted, the people inspired and the institutions strengthened along the way.”

VP Shettima described the late elder statesman as a custodian of political memory whose contributions to education, democratic governance and progressive politics transcended regional boundaries.

Senator Shettima noted that while Pa Fasoranti’s longevity was extraordinary, his passing would remain deeply painful to those who knew him as a father, grandfather, mentor and trusted counsellor.

“Even a hundred years cannot exhaust the love of a family or prepare the heart for the final departure of a cherished patriarch. Those who loved Baba will miss the familiar voice, the reassuring presence and the wisdom that no public tribute can fully capture.

“Yet, there is consolation in knowing that a life devoted to service does not end with its final breath. It continues in the character of those it shaped, the convictions it inspired and the memories that give succeeding generations a sense of belonging,” he added.

VP Shettima said Pa Fasoranti’s legacy should encourage Nigerians to preserve the values of dialogue, mutual respect and responsible citizenship, particularly in moments of political disagreement.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late patriarch’s soul and divine comfort for his family and all who mourn him.

Stanley Nkwocha
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications
(Office of the Vice President)
21st October, 2026