Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has shown his sorrow over the deaths of Reuben Fasoranti, the former Afenifere leader, and Emmanuel Uduaghan, who was the former governor of Delta State.
Obasanjo described Fasoranti, who passed away on Tuesday, as one of the last great figures from a time that set the stage for modern Nigeria through selfless work, sacrifice, and strong integrity.
He shared this in a statement on Tuesday in Abeokuta through his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi.
According to Obasanjo, Fasoranti’s life was a true example of purposeful leadership and a strong commitment to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria’s progress.
The former president called the passing of the elder statesman the end of a remarkable era. He remembered Fasoranti’s contributions to education and nation-building.
Obasanjo mentioned that Fasoranti served as a school principal in several notable institutions. He helped shape young minds, instilled discipline, and built character before moving into politics.
He also recalled Fasoranti’s role as Commissioner for Finance in the old Ondo State during the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) administration.
Obasanjo noted that the late Afenifere leader’s record in office is still a model for fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability.
He said Fasoranti provided strong leadership when he took charge of Afenifere during a time of internal strife and national uncertainty.
Obasanjo added that Fasoranti always stood against military rule and fought for true federalism, justice, and fairness, even in the face of threats to his life.
"When the responsibility of leading Afenifere came to him during a time of division and national uncertainty, Baba stood firm. He became a unifying force. He led with calm authority that came from the strong moral weight of his beliefs.
"On a personal note, I will always remember Baba’s kindness and his open-door policy. Even when we disagreed politically, our respect for each other never faded," he said.
On Uduaghan, who died on Monday at the age of 71, Obasanjo called his death a painful loss for Nigeria. He said the country had lost a gentleman, a dedicated medical professional, and an accomplished statesman.
He remembered working with Uduaghan during his presidency when Uduaghan served as Commissioner for Health and later as Secretary to the State Government under former Delta governor James Ibori.
Obasanjo said Uduaghan showed great skill as an administrator and was a calm voice during times of political unrest and agitation in the Niger Delta.
He added that their discussions on healthcare policies and federal-state relations displayed Uduaghan’s ability and commitment to Delta State’s peace and development.
Obasanjo said these traits prepared Uduaghan for leadership when he became the governor of Delta State in 2007.
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