National Chairman Godknows Boladei Igali Says Late Afenifere Leader Strengthened National Unity And Regional Collaboration
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed profound sadness over the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, former National Leader of Afenifere, the apex socio-political organisation of the South-West, describing him as a man of integrity, patriotism and unwavering commitment to nation-building.
Pa Fasoranti, who died on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100, was celebrated by PANDEF for his contributions to progressive politics, democratic governance, restructuring and the pursuit of a more equitable Nigeria.
In a condolence statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, PhD, OON, and dated October 22, 2026, PANDEF extended its deepest condolences to the Fasoranti family, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the Akure Kingdom, the Ondo State Government, the Yoruba nation and Nigerians at large.
The organisation described the late elder statesman as an educationist of distinction whose life was defined by integrity, consistency and service to humanity.
According to PANDEF, Pa Fasoranti taught for several decades and served as a school principal before becoming a prominent voice in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. As a lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he remained committed to progressive ideals, restructuring and democratic accountability.
The forum also acknowledged his leadership of Afenifere through periods of consensus and internal challenges, noting that he remained a respected advocate of true federalism, devolution of power and democratic governance.
PANDEF recalled its longstanding relationship with Pa Fasoranti through the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), a coalition comprising PANDEF, representing the South-South; Afenifere, representing the South-West; Ohanaeze Ndigbo, representing the South-East; and the Middle Belt Forum (MBF).
The statement noted that Afenifere was a founding member of the coalition under Pa Fasoranti and his then deputy, the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo. It added that the relationship fostered years of constructive engagement and cooperation among the regional socio-political organisations.
The Niger Delta socio-political organisation further recalled Pa Fasoranti’s tribute to the late Chief Edwin Clark, a former leader of PANDEF and the SMBLF, following his death in 2025.
According to PANDEF, Pa Fasoranti had described Clark as a tireless advocate for the restructuring of Nigeria and the protection of the interests of the South-South.
The forum said the tribute reflected the mutual respect and longstanding solidarity between PANDEF and Afenifere on issues of national cohesion, peace, the rule of law, justice, equity and resource control.
PANDEF maintained that Pa Fasoranti had left enduring footprints in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, national unity and a more equitable political system.
It added that his death marked the end of a significant chapter in the history of progressive politics and inter-regional collaboration in the country.
The organisation urged the bereaved family and the Yoruba nation to draw comfort from the Holy Scriptures, citing Revelation 14:13, which states that those who die in the Lord are blessed because they will rest from their labour.
PANDEF concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the late elder statesman’s soul.
The statement was signed by Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, PhD, OON, National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), on October 22, 2026.