The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has set up a committee to coordinate the burial of its late leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, while warning members against discussing his successor before his funeral.
The decision was taken on Tuesday at a meeting of the organisation’s National Executive Committee at the deceased’s residence in Akure, Ondo State.
Fasoranti, a prominent Yoruba leader and elder statesman, died at the age of 100. His family has fixed December 17, 2026, for his funeral and interment.
Afenifere’s National Executive Committee Chairman, Oba Olu Falae, said the committee would work with the family’s burial committee and a government committee to organise a befitting funeral.
The committee comprises members of Afenifere and other groups that previously met at Ogbo, Ogun State. Falae said its membership could be expanded to ensure broad representation.
The organisation described discussions about succession as premature, arguing that the priority should be to give Fasoranti a befitting burial before considering who would lead the group.
Falae said debating a successor before the burial was contrary to Yoruba culture, adding that Afenifere would seek a credible leader after the funeral.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Olori Rachael Falae described the late elder statesman as a quiet, disciplined and trustworthy leader who remained committed to his convictions.
She recalled his service as a local government chairman and school principal, noting that his tenure included the construction of key roads in Akure.
She said Fasoranti was widely respected in the community, where residents often turned to him to help resolve difficult issues.
Olori Falae appealed to Afenifere members to preserve his legacy by working together and resolving their differences.
“I am appealing to the Afenifere group that they should please let this attitude remain, that they should work together and ensure that Afenifere stands for something that is good, something unique, something that can bring our people together,” she said.
She added that the family expected Afenifere members, community representatives, the church and state governors to participate in the funeral arrangements.
Tributes are expected to begin in the days leading up to the December 17 funeral, with specific days to be allocated to different groups.
Discussion0