The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, former National Leader of Afenifere, describing him as a committed advocate of integrity, democratic governance, national restructuring and inter-regional cooperation.
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Fasoranti, who died on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100, was a prominent leader of Afenifere, the foremost socio-political organisation in the South-West.
In a condolence statement issued on Thursday, October 22, 2026, PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, PhD, OON, extended the organisation’s sympathies to the Fasoranti family, Afenifere, the Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government and people, the Yoruba nation and Nigerians at large.
PANDEF described the late elder statesman’s life as one defined by integrity, consistency and service to humanity.
An accomplished educationist who served for decades as a teacher and school principal, Fasoranti was also a lifelong disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and a strong advocate of progressive political values, restructuring and democratic accountability.
According to PANDEF, he led Afenifere through periods of consensus and internal challenges while maintaining his commitment to the organisation’s ideals.
PANDEF Recalls Fasoranti’s Relationship with Clark
The Niger Delta socio-political organisation also recalled its longstanding relationship with Fasoranti through the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), a coalition comprising PANDEF, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Middle Belt Forum.
PANDEF noted that Afenifere was a founding member of the coalition under Fasoranti’s leadership and that of his then deputy, the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
The organisation said Fasoranti remained a respected voice in national affairs, particularly on issues relating to true federalism, devolution of powers and democratic governance.
It also highlighted his relationship with the late Chief Edwin Clark, the former leader of PANDEF and the SMBLF, who died in 2025.
PANDEF recalled that Fasoranti paid tribute to Clark following his death, acknowledging his sustained advocacy for the restructuring of Nigeria and the interests of the South-South region.
According to the statement, the tribute reflected the mutual respect and longstanding solidarity between the two leaders and their organisations on issues of national cohesion, peace, justice, equity, the rule of law and resource control.
‘He Has Left Footprints in Nigeria’s Democratic Struggle’
PANDEF said Fasoranti’s death marked the end of a significant chapter in the history of progressive politics and inter-regional collaboration in Nigeria.
The organisation stated that his contributions would remain part of the country’s long struggle for a more democratic and equitable society.
It urged the Fasoranti family and the Yoruba nation to draw comfort from the Bible, quoting Revelation 14:13:
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… they will rest from their labour.”
The statement concluded with PANDEF praying for the peaceful repose of the late elder statesman’s soul.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Igali said.
The statement was signed by Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, National Chairman of PANDEF, and dated October 22, 2026.
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