Former Press Secretary to several Oyo State governors, veteran journalist and the Abese of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, is dead. He was 76.
His death was announced on Saturday in a statement issued by Adeola Oloko, Media Aide to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
According to the statement, the respected journalist and traditional chief died in Lagos on Saturday morning and would be buried on Sunday in accordance with Islamic rites.
“The veteran journalist and multiple press secretary to former Oyo State governors, Lekan Alabi, is dead. The Abese Olubadan passed away this morning in Lagos at the age of 76. He will be buried on Sunday in accordance with Islamic rites,” the statement read.
Chief Alabi was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished journalists and public communicators. Throughout his career, he distinguished himself in journalism, public service and cultural advocacy, earning national recognition for his contributions to governance, media practice and the promotion of Yoruba history and tradition.
Makinde mourns distinguished statesman
Reacting to the development, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described Alabi’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Oyo State but to Nigeria, noting that his contributions to journalism, culture and public service would remain unforgettable.
Makinde said the late elder statesman was a man of immense wisdom, integrity and dedication whose voice carried the weight of truth. He added that Chief Alabi’s counsel was sought by leaders across generations because of his vast experience and commitment to the public good.
According to the governor, Alabi remained unwavering in his efforts to preserve Yoruba culture and values while serving as an ambassador of Ibadanland through his writings, public engagements and community leadership.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the Alabi family, friends and associates, as well as the people of Ibadanland and the entire Oyo State, urging them to take solace in the enduring impact of the late chief’s remarkable life and service.
“The government and people of Oyo State stand with the Alabi family at this difficult time. May the Almighty grant them strength and comfort, and may Chief Lekan Alabi’s soul rest in perfect peace,” Makinde said.
Alli pays tribute
Also mourning the late journalist, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, described Alabi’s death as a monumental loss to Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria.
In a condolence message personally signed on Saturday, Alli said the late chief was a towering personality whose distinguished career reflected intellectual excellence, integrity, deep knowledge and an unwavering commitment to the progress of Ibadanland.
He noted that Chief Alabi’s influence extended beyond journalism and public service into the traditional institution, where he earned widespread respect for his wisdom, dignity and experience.
Alli also praised the late chief’s service as Press Secretary to successive Oyo State governors, saying it demonstrated his uncommon mastery of communication, government affairs and public relations.
He described Alabi as an accomplished journalist, distinguished public servant and revered traditional chief whose life was devoted to service, knowledge and the advancement of society, adding that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
The APC governorship candidate also commiserated with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the Alabi family, journalists and associates of the deceased, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.