21st October, 2026
The Association of Non-Affiliated Newspaper and Magazine Publishers (ANNMP) has expressed deep shock and profound sorrow over the passing of the National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who died on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.
In a condolence statement issued in Akure and jointly signed by its President and Secretary, ANNMP described the death of Pa Fasoranti as the fall of a mighty Iroko tree and the close of a glorious era in Yoruba and Nigerian history.
The Association said it received with heavy hearts the news of the transition of the elder statesman, educationist, and pro-democracy icon, whose life spanned over a century of dedicated service to the Yoruba race and Nigeria.
“Pa Reuben Fasoranti was not just the Leader of Afenifere; he was the conscience of the progressive movement. From the Action Group to the Unity Party of Nigeria, and from the trenches of NADECO where he survived assassination attempts under General Sani Abacha, to leading Afenifere through turbulent times, he remained unbowed, principled, and faithful to the ideals of Chief Obafemi Awolowo till his last breath,” the statement read.
ANNMP noted that Pa Fasoranti’s contributions went beyond politics. As a renowned educationist who served as Principal of Oyemekun Grammar School, Christ’s School Ado-Ekiti, Olivet Baptist High School and founded Akure High School and Omolere Schools, he shaped generations of leaders who are today captains of industry and public service.
The Association recalled that even at 100, Pa Fasoranti continued to offer wise counsel on restructuring, true federalism, and good governance, proving that age did not diminish his passion for a better Nigeria.
“For us in the independent media, Pa Fasoranti was a father, a credible source of wisdom and a fearless defender of press freedom and democracy. He understood the role of the media in nation-building and always stood with the truth,” the Association said.
ANNMP commiserated with the Fasoranti family of Akure, the entire Akure Kingdom, the leadership of Afenifere Worldwide, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and all progressive-minded Nigerians over the monumental loss.
The Association prayed for the repose of his soul and for God to grant the family and Yoruba nation the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
E-signed
Dupson Collins
Secretary, ANNMP
