The remains of Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, will be laid to rest on December 17, 2026, in Akure, Ondo State, following a funeral service at St. David’s Cathedral, Ijomu.
The family announced the burial arrangements on Thursday night through a statement issued by the Secretary to the Ondo State Government and son of the deceased, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti.
Fasoranti, a prominent Yoruba nationalist and respected political figure, died on Tuesday at his Akure residence at the age of 100.
According to the family, funeral activities will begin on Wednesday, December 16, with a Christian wake at the late elder statesman’s residence within the Omolere Nursery and Primary School compound in Akure.
The funeral service will take place the following day at St. David’s Cathedral, after which his remains will be interred at the church cemetery.
Guests are expected to be received at the family residence following the burial.
The ceremonies will conclude on Sunday, December 20, with an outing and thanksgiving service at the same cathedral.
Announcing the programme, the family described Fasoranti as a beloved patriarch whose contributions to national development deserved recognition.
“The family of late Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, CFR, is pleased to announce the burial arrangements of our beloved patriarch, leader of Afenifere and foremost nationalist, who passed away at the age of 100 years,” the statement read.
The family also appealed to Nigerians, associates and well-wishers to participate in the ceremonies and offer prayers in honour of the deceased.
“We request your prayers and presence as we honour the memory of a distinguished elder and patriot,” it added.
Meanwhile, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has described Fasoranti’s death as a significant loss to the state, the Yoruba people and Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday, the governor praised the late nationalist for his commitment to justice, public service and societal development.
Aiyedatiwa said Fasoranti’s century-long life reflected dedication to principles that shaped his contributions to political and community affairs.
He described the deceased as a source of guidance whose counsel and leadership influenced generations.
“Pa Fasoranti was a patriarch, a beacon of wisdom, integrity and selfless service whose century-long life was marked by uncommon commitment to the development of our dear State, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large,” the governor stated.
He added that the elder statesman’s principled positions on governance and justice would remain an important part of his legacy.
Fasoranti’s death marks the passing of a prominent figure in the Yoruba sociopolitical movement, with his family now preparing to receive mourners and dignitaries for the December funeral ceremonies in Akure.
Ezeana Emmanuel
