My father promised to die at 100, Ondo SSG Taiwo Fasoranti

Taiwo Fasoranti, the first child of the late Afenifere leader Reuben Fasoranti, has revealed that his father had a promise with God to die at the age of 100.

Mr Fasoranti, who is the Secretary to the Ondo State Government, shared this during a condolence visit by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to the Fasoranti family in Akure on Tuesday night.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Mr Fasoranti passed away on Tuesday evening at his home in Ijapo, Akure.

The SSG mentioned that his father often told the family he had a promise with God to leave this world when he turned 100.

"Baba often told us that he had a promise with God that whenever he got to 100, he would go. He repeatedly told us that when he died, we should not cry.

"We are not mourning Baba, we are rejoicing.

"Baba has left us a big pair of shoes to step into, but we can only thank God for the legacy of firmness, resilience, hard work and love that he left us with," he said.

The SSG described his father as a dedicated parent who played an active role in raising and educating his children.

He said the family would deeply miss the wise advice of the late nationalist, whom he called a man of few words who expressed his thoughts "quietly but effectively."

He expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for standing by the family during this time, while asking for prayers so that the children can uphold their father’s legacies.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described the late Afenifere leader as a symbol of humility, kindness and wisdom whose impact on governance and national progress will be remembered.

"Even at that age, Baba was still influencing decisions of the government. That shows he was still mentally sharp," he said.

The governor called the deceased a great educator whose positive impact reached many generations, creating notable figures in Nigeria and beyond.

"We cannot but celebrate his life and times. We are not mourning. We are just celebrating and thanking God for a life that was well lived," he said.

The governor stated that the late nationalist lived a fulfilled life marked by humility, kindness, wisdom and a commitment to serving humanity.

Mr Aiyedatiwa encouraged the family and all Nigerians to follow the good example set by the deceased and continue to contribute positively to society.