RismadarVoice Reporters
October 28, 2026
The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to name an educational institution after the late Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, in recognition of his contributions to education, democracy and national development.
The resolution was adopted during Wednesday’s plenary as lawmakers paid tribute to Fasoranti, who died on October 20, 2026, at the age of 100.
The Senate also observed a minute’s silence in his honour and resolved to send a delegation to Ondo State to commiserate with his family and the state government.
The resolutions followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, representing Ondo Central.
Presenting the motion, Adegbonmire described Fasoranti as a respected nationalist, educationist and political leader whose contributions to public service extended across several decades.
He recalled that the late elder statesman established educational institutions, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School and Akure High School, to expand access to education in Ondo State.
According to the lawmaker, Fasoranti’s commitment to education reflected his belief in developing future generations through knowledge, discipline and responsible leadership.
Born on May 11, 1926, Fasoranti began his career as a teacher before becoming actively involved in politics and public administration.
He served as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin during the Second Republic.
The late statesman was also associated with Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s political movement and became a founding member of the Alliance for Democracy.
He subsequently emerged as a prominent leader of Afenifere following the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.
Adegbonmire highlighted Fasoranti’s involvement in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement, particularly during the military era, describing him as an advocate of democratic governance, justice and national unity.
Contributing to the motion, Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, representing Ondo North, praised Fasoranti’s role in promoting peace and resolving disagreements within communities.
He described the elder statesman’s death as a major loss to Ondo State, noting that his experience and counsel had benefited different generations.
The Senate subsequently adopted the motion and recommended that an educational institution be named after Fasoranti as a lasting tribute to his contributions.
The recommendation will require further action by the appropriate government authorities before any institution can be formally renamed.
Fasoranti’s death has attracted tributes from President Bola Tinubu, political leaders and socio-cultural organisations across Nigeria.
