Finance Minister Oyedele Mourns Pa Fasoranti
…Says his record is “a clear benchmark” for Those Managing the Economy
By Patience Ikpeme
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, has joined Nigerians in mourning the death of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the revered elder statesman and leader of the Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, who died at the age of 100.
In a tribute titled “Tribute to Pa Reuben Fasoranti (1926–2026)”, the Minister said he joined the nation in grieving the passing of the elder statesman, who reached the milestone of a century. He described Pa Fasoranti’s life as one “defined by integrity, principle, and dedicated public service.”
Mr Oyedele paid special attention to the late leader’s time as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State, where he served under the then Governor, Chief Michael Ajasin. The Minister said that record has remained important to people who work in managing the economy.
“For those of us in economic management, his record as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State under Chief Michael Ajasin remains a clear benchmark of prudence, accountability, and ethical stewardship,” he said.
The Minister, who is himself from Ondo State, said he shared in the grief of the state’s people. “As a proud son of Ondo State, I share in the grief of our people,” he said.
Mr Oyedele said the best way to honour the late elder statesman would be to follow the example he set in public life. “The finest tribute to his century of service is to lead with the discipline, fairness, and commitment to the public good that he demonstrated throughout his life,” he said.
He also sent his condolences to those closest to the departed leader. “My thoughts and deepest condolences go to the Fasoranti family, the Afenifere community, and the people of Ondo State,” the Minister said.
He ended his message with a prayer for the late statesman: “May his soul rest in peace.”
