… dismisses leadership crisis claims
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, says it is focused on preparations for the burial of its late leader, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, assuring that the organisation remains united despite his demise.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, Afenifere disclosed that the Chairman of its National Executive Committee, Oba Olu Falae, in collaboration with the family, is setting up a burial committee to ensure a befitting farewell for the late centenarian.
The organisation also dismissed reports of a leadership crisis, describing discussions about succession before the burial as contrary to Yoruba values and traditions.
Ajayi quoted Oba Falae as saying that members of Afenifere worldwide were currently focused on giving their departed leader, also known as the Asiwaju Yoruba, a glorious burial.
“Our attention presently is on how to give our leader and Asiwaju Yoruba a glorious burial that he deserves. It would be a height of irresponsibility to be talking about leadership when the remains of the respected leader have not been interred,” the statement quoted Oba Falae as saying.
The organisation announced that Oba Falae would lead delegates from Afenifere branches across Yorubaland to pay a formal condolence visit to the family in Akure on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, marking the eighth day after Fasoranti’s death.
The delegation is expected to comprise representatives from Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Lagos and Ondo states.
Afenifere said further details concerning its leadership would be made public at the appropriate time.
Chief Fasoranti died on October 20, 2026, aged 100, months after celebrating his centenary on May 11.
The organisation also released the funeral arrangements for the late leader. A Christian wake-keeping service will hold on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, at the premises of Omolere Nursery and Primary School within his estate in the Fiwasaye area of Akure.
The funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, December 17, at St. David’s Cathedral, Ijomu, Akure, followed by interment at the church cemetery. A reception will take place at the late leader’s residence.
A thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday, December 20, at St. David’s Cathedral, Ijomu, Akure.
Describing the late Afenifere leader as a man whose legacy would endure, Oba Falae said Chief Fasoranti would be greatly missed for his firmness, resilience, compassion, hard work and exemplary conduct.
He added that the organisation was celebrating the life of its departed leader rather than mourning, noting that he had lived a purposeful and fulfilling life.
