Makinde, Olubadan mourn late veteran Oyo chief
August 2, 2026 12:01 am
File: veteran journalist and former press secretary to past Oyo State governors, Chief Lekan Alabi
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; and the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Sharafadeen Alli, on Saturday mourned the passing of the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Lekan Alabi.
Makinde, Oba Ladoja, Alli and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, in separate statements, described Alabi’s demise as a monumental loss not only to Oyo State but to the country as a whole, noting his invaluable contributions to journalism, culture and public service.
Alabi died on Saturday morning in Lagos at the age of 76.
Until his death, he was a veteran journalist, public affairs analyst, elder statesman, cultural icon, community leader and multiple press secretary to former Oyo State governors.
Makinde, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said, “Chief Alabi was a man of immense wisdom, integrity, and dedication. His voice carried the weight of truth, his counsel was sought by leaders across generations, and his commitment to the preservation of Yoruba culture and values was unwavering. Oyo State has lost one of its finest sons.”
He extended his condolences to Alabi’s family, friends and associates, as well as the Ibadan community and the state.
The governor urged all who mourned to take solace in the enduring impact of Alabi’s life and work.
Also, Oba Ladoja, in a statement issued by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, said Alabi was an amazing human being who grew up with him in the same Born Photo, Isale-Osi, Ibadan, neighbourhood.
Ladoja said, “Beyond this, Oloye Alabi had an impressive record of achievements in the field of journalism and public relations. He was an unapologetic promoter of Ibadan custom and tradition, which he wore like a badge.
“When I (Ladoja) was acting Chairman, Ibadan South East Traditional Council, I recalled that Chief Alabi was a stickler for time and a robust contributor to traditional and customary matters,” describing Alabi’s death as “devastating and heartbreaking. May God rest his soul and comfort his family.”
Similarly, Alli described the deceased as a towering personality whose career in journalism, public service and the traditional institution reflected intellectual excellence, integrity, deep knowledge and an unwavering commitment to the progress of Ibadanland.
He said Alabi’s contributions transcended journalism and public service, stressing that his wisdom, dignity, experience and commitment to the progress of Ibadanland made him a significant figure within the traditional institution.
“Lekan Alabi was a towering personality, an accomplished journalist, distinguished public servant, and revered traditional chief whose life was devoted to service, knowledge, and the advancement of society.
“His passing is a painful and irreplaceable loss. Ibadanland has lost a custodian of its history and values, while the journalism profession has lost one of its finest voices and most experienced practitioners.
“His footprints in journalism, public service, and the traditional institution remain indelible. His legacy will continue to inspire generations and serve as a reminder of the power of knowledge, integrity, and service to humanity,” Alli said.
Also, the CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, in a statement by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, said, “Alabi was more than a distinguished son of Ibadanland; he was a symbol of excellence, a foremost historian, an accomplished public intellectual, a renowned communicator, and one of the greatest promoters of the rich cultural heritage and glorious history of our ancient city.
“Throughout his lifetime, he dedicated his intellect, influence, and energy to projecting the positive image of Ibadanland both within Nigeria and beyond.
“His exceptional contributions to historical documentation, cultural preservation, public service and national development have earned him a permanent place in the annals of Ibadan history. His books, lectures, public engagements and unwavering advocacy for the values, traditions and progress of Ibadanland have become enduring treasures for generations yet unborn.
“While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life exceptionally lived—a life of honour, integrity, scholarship, patriotism, humility and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity. Chief Lekan Alabi has left behind an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire present and future generations to serve Ibadanland with dedication, dignity and selflessness.”
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