Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in the state, Sharafadeen Alli, have paid tribute to the late Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Lekan Alabi.
In separate statements, Makinde, Oba Ladoja, Alli and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) described Alabi’s death as a significant loss to Oyo State and Nigeria, citing his outstanding contributions to journalism, Yoruba culture and public service.
Alabi died in Lagos on Saturday at the age of 76.
Before his death, he was widely known as a veteran journalist, public affairs commentator, elder statesman, cultural advocate, community leader and former press secretary to several Oyo State governors.
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde 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.”
The governor also sympathised with the late chief’s family, friends, associates, the people of Ibadan and residents of Oyo State, urging them to draw strength from the lasting legacy of his life and service.
Oba Ladoja, in a statement signed by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, described Alabi as an exceptional individual with whom he shared childhood memories in the Born Photo, Isale-Osi area of Ibadan.
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.”
Also mourning the late chief, Sharafadeen Alli described him as an outstanding figure whose accomplishments in journalism, public service and the traditional institution were defined by excellence, integrity and dedication to the development of Ibadanland.
According to Alli, Alabi’s influence extended beyond journalism and government service, noting that his wisdom, experience and devotion to Ibadan’s growth earned him immense respect 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.
The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, also honoured Alabi’s memory in a statement issued by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide.
He 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.”