A senior chief in the Olubadan chieftaincy line and renowned journalist, Oloye Lekan Alabi, has been buried according to Islamic rites following his death at the age of 76.
Alabi, who held the title of Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland and served as Chief Press Secretary to four former governors of the old Oyo State, died in Lagos on Saturday.
His final rites began with a Janazah prayer held at his residence in Akobo, Ibadan, where family members, friends, political associates, professional colleagues and admirers gathered to pay their last respects to one of Ibadan’s most respected media figures.
The Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Agbotomokekere, led the funeral prayer before Alabi’s remains were conveyed in a solemn procession to Eternal Homes, Fiditi, in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, where he was laid to rest.
A large gathering of traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders and residents received the funeral procession in Fiditi, where tributes highlighted Alabi’s enduring contributions to journalism, public service and the traditional institution.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished media professionals, Alabi served as Press Secretary to four governors of the old Oyo State between 1983 and 1989.
Those who spoke during the burial ceremony described his years in government as a period distinguished by professionalism, dedication and unwavering commitment to public service.
Beyond his government service, Alabi built a distinguished career as a columnist, public relations consultant and mentor, earning the respect of generations of journalists.
Many media practitioners in Oyo State and beyond acknowledged his guidance and support at critical stages of their careers.
As the Abese of Olubadan, he also played an active role in the traditional leadership of Ibadanland.
He was widely known for offering wise counsel within the Olubadan-in-Council and for promoting harmony among members of the traditional institution.
Alabi often described his chieftaincy title as a responsibility to serve the people with truth, integrity and dignity, principles that many speakers said defined his life and career.
News of his death on Saturday attracted condolences from media organisations, professional associations, political leaders and prominent Nigerians, who described his passing as a significant loss to journalism, public service and Ibadanland.
