PANDEF Mourns Fasoranti, Hails Legacy of Integrity, Nation-Building

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, former National Leader of Afenifere, describing the late elder statesman as a man of integrity whose life was devoted to nation-building, democratic governance and the pursuit of a more equitable Nigeria.

Fasoranti died on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.

In a condolence statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF described the deceased as a distinguished educationist, accomplished principal and lifelong disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The Forum said Fasoranti remained a consistent advocate of progressive values, restructuring, true federalism, devolution of powers and democratic accountability, adding that he provided steady leadership to Afenifere through periods of both unity and internal challenges.

PANDEF recalled its longstanding relationship with Fasoranti and his former deputy, the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, through the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), a coalition comprising PANDEF, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Middle Belt Forum.

According to PANDEF, Afenifere was a foundation member of the SMBLF under Fasoranti’s leadership, with the late elder statesman serving as a respected voice in the collective struggle for national restructuring, justice, equity, resource control and democratic governance.

The Forum also highlighted the strong bond between Fasoranti and the late Chief Edwin Clark, a former leader of PANDEF and the SMBLF. It recalled that following Clark’s death in 2025, Fasoranti paid a brotherly tribute to him, describing him as a tireless advocate for a restructured Nigeria and the interests of the South-South.

PANDEF said Fasoranti’s tribute to Clark reflected the deep mutual respect and solidarity that existed between Afenifere and PANDEF, particularly on issues of national cohesion, peace, justice, equity and the rule of law.

“Pa Fasoranti has clearly left footprints in the long struggle for a better, democratic and more equitable Nigeria,” PANDEF stated, noting that his death had closed a significant chapter in the history of progressive politics and inter-regional collaboration in Nigeria.

The Forum extended its condolences to the Fasoranti family, Afenifere, the Akure Kingdom, Ondo State, the Yoruba nation and Nigerians generally.

It urged the bereaved family and the Yoruba nation to take solace in the Holy Scriptures, quoting Revelation 14:13: “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… they will rest from their labor.”

PANDEF prayed for the peaceful repose of Fasoranti’s soul.