The Coalition of Oodua Self Determination Group (COSEG) has described the passing of the leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, as the fall of the last of the titans and the end of a glorious era in Yoruba history.
In a condolence statement issued on Thursday, COSEG said it received with deep shock and profound sadness the news of the death of the nonagenarian Yoruba leader.
The group said Pa Fasoranti was a rare breed, a principled democrat, a distinguished educationist, a fearless elder statesman and a custodian of Yoruba values and Omoluabi ethos who dedicated his entire life to the service of Yorubaland and Nigeria.
According to COSEG, Pa Fasoranti stood firm for truth, justice, true federalism and restructuring, and never wavered in his commitment to the ideals of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
"Pa Fasoranti was indeed the last of the titans. He was the last man standing among that generation of selfless leaders who built progressive politics in the South West and laid the foundation for Yoruba political relevance in Nigeria. His exit has created a vacuum that will be very difficult to fill," the group stated.
COSEG noted that even in old age, Pa Fasoranti provided wise counsel, fatherly guidance and moral leadership to the Yoruba nation and remained the rallying point for unity among the various Yoruba self-determination groups.
The Coalition therefore called on South West Governors - Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo and Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti - to immortalize the late Afenifere leader in recognition of his monumental contributions.
COSEG proposed that major public institutions, monuments and roads across the South West be named after him and that a befitting state honour be organized to preserve his legacy for future generations.
The group commiserated with the Fasoranti family of Akure, the Afenifere family worldwide, the government and people of Ondo State, and the entire Yoruba nation.
It prayed for the repose of his gentle soul.
E-Signed:
Dayo Ogunlana
Chairman, Coordinating Council
Coalition of Oodua Self Determination Group (COSEG)
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