President Muhammadu Buhari has led a plethora of prominent Nigerians who have been paying their tributes to Pa Ayorinde Fasanmi, the National leader of Afenifere, a top socio-political group in the South-West and Second Republic Senator who died earlier today.
President Buhari in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina described the elder statesman’s death as a huge loss to Nigeria.
“His death is a big loss to the nation. I condole with people and government of Osun and Ekiti States, family members, friends and associates of the elder statesman, who served as a legislator in both House of Representatives and Senate and distinguished himself politically by always standing for the truth, especially on issues related to the uplifting of the downtrodden.
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His wise counsels borne out of humility, deep reflection, diligent studies and experience will be sorely missed by governments at different levels, as he regularly and willingly listened to leaders, and always had good advice on going forward” President Buhari said.
Continuing, President Buhari said “as an ardent follower and prodigy of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the fearless and consistent leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural and political organization lived to serve his people and the nation, and the progressive ideals that he projected impacted greatly and provided a road map on development at state and federal levels.
The efforts of Chief Fasanmi in the founding and sustenance of Nigeria’s democracy will be remembered, and posterity will be glad for his great sacrifices” he concluded.
The President prayed that the Almighty God will receive the soul of the departed leader, and comfort his family’
Similarly, The Speaker of the House of Representative, Femi Gbajabiamila expressed his sadness over the demise of Pa Fasanmi extolling his humility, selflessness, and integrity.
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“As a federal lawmaker at the national level, first as a member of the House of Representatives and later a Senator, Pa Fasanmi came across as a symbol of humility, selflessness, and integrity. These attributes have continued to inspire lawmakers across the country. It is my prayer that his soul rests in perfect peace, and may God give those he left behind the fortitude to bear the loss” he said.
On his part, Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, expressed sadness over the death of an elder statesman describing him as a great nationalist, passionate leader, and humility personified.
“Pa Fasanmi was an exemplary leader who spent the greater part of his life in the service of humanity, particularly the Yoruba course where he contributed to the development of the region,” he said.
Other prominent Nigerians who have paid their tribute to the elder statesman included Governor Godwin Obaseki, the All Progressives Congress, Governments of Osun and Ekiti amongst others.
