Pa Fasoranti prepared us for his death at 100, son reveals
By Kemi Aina
Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, the eldest son of the late Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, has revealed that his father repeatedly told family members that he had a personal covenant with God to leave the earth at the age of 100.
Dr. Fasoranti, who serves as the Secretary to the Ondo State Government (SSG), made the disclosure on Tuesday night when Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa led a delegation on a condolence visit to the family’s residence in Akure following the death of the elder statesman.
Pa Fasoranti died on Tuesday evening at his residence in the Ijapo area of Akure, the Ondo State capital.
Addressing the governor and other dignitaries during the visit, the SSG explained that his father had prepared his children for his eventual departure, repeatedly instructing them not to mourn when he attained the age of 100.
“Baba often told us that he had a covenant with God that whenever he got to 100, he would go.
He repeatedly told us that when he died, we should not cry,” Dr. Fasoranti said.
“We are not mourning, Baba; we are rejoicing.
“Baba has left us a big pair of shoes to step into, but we can only thank God for the legacy of firmness, resilience, hard work and love that he left us with,” he added.
The SSG reflected on his father’s active role in raising his children, describing him as a devoted parent and a disciplined elder statesman whose words carried immense weight despite his quiet disposition.
He noted that the family would greatly miss the late nationalist’s wise counsel, describing him as a man of few words who communicated his thoughts quietly but effectively.
Dr. Fasoranti also expressed appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for standing by the family during the difficult period, while appealing for continued prayers to help the children sustain their father’s enduring legacy.
In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa extolled the virtues of the late pan-Yoruba leader, describing him as an embodiment of humility, wisdom and selfless service whose contributions to national development would remain indelible.
“Even at that age, Baba was still influencing decisions of government.
“That is to tell you that he was still mentally sound,” Aiyedatiwa remarked, noting that the elder statesman remained mentally alert and actively engaged in public affairs throughout his later years.
The governor said Pa Fasoranti’s century-long life was worthy of gratitude and celebration rather than sorrow, urging citizens and political leaders to draw inspiration from his unwavering commitment to good governance and community development.
“We cannot but celebrate his life and times.
“We are not mourning. We are just celebrating and thanking God for a life that was well lived,” the governor concluded.
