The death has been announced of Ayo Fasanmi, an elder statesman and national leader of the foremost Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere. He was aged 94.
He died on Wednesday according to a press statement by Funke Egbemode, the commissioner for information in Osun state. Egbemode revealed that the death of the foremost politician was confirmed by the deceased’s son, Obafemi.
Egbemode eulogised the APC chieftain for his sterling leadership qualities and contributions to national development.
“Baba Fasanmi was a leader who demonstrated his love for our great country in many laudable ways;” she said.
The statement continued, “but more heart-warming was how he showed optimal concern for the welfare of the poor and underprivileged, and how he held leaders accountable on their promises of good governance.
“We also recognise how much Osogbo, and Osun State as a whole meant to Pa Fasanmi, who was transferred to Osogbo as a Pharmacist in 1951, and he chose to live here till he took his last breath.
“His Alekuwodo residence became a make-shift Secretariat for a number of causes and movements of national relevance.
“The State Government of Osun appreciates all he accomplished in his lifetime, especially as a pivotal force in the socio-cultural and political bolstering of the Yoruba.”
Fasanmi served at the House of Representatives and Senate at different times. He was among core loyalists of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Another son of the late political leader, Folabi revealed that a burial date would be announced by the family after due consultation with the political associates and friends of the deceased.
