Former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Africa Union of Journalists (AUJ), Mr. Lanre Ogundipe, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned journalist, public relations strategist and cultural icon, Oloye Abdulrasheed Olalekan Alabi, describing his passing as a monumental loss to journalism, public service and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, Ogundipe said the late Oloye Lekan Alabi’s transition had deprived Nigeria of one of its most accomplished media professionals and foremost cultural ambassadors, whose contributions to journalism and the promotion of Ibadan history and Yoruba civilisation would remain indelible.
According to him, Alabi belonged to a rare generation of journalists who regarded the profession as a sacred calling rather than merely a career, noting that his professionalism, integrity and dedication earned him widespread respect across the country.
Ogundipe recalled that the late media icon served as Press Secretary to the late Chief Bola Ige during his tenure as Governor of the old Oyo State, where he worked alongside respected media practitioners, Dapo Aderinola and Femi Mapaderun, helping to establish enduring standards in government communication and media relations.
He added that Alabi’s competence and impeccable character saw him serving successive administrations, including that of the former Military Governor of old Oyo State, Major-General Oladayo Popoola (Rtd.), as well as other governors, describing the appointments as a testament to the confidence reposed in his professional ability.
Beyond journalism, Ogundipe described the late Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland as an exceptional custodian of Yoruba civilisation who dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the history, traditions and cultural identity of Ibadan and the Yoruba people.
He noted that, having previously held the traditional titles of Ekefa and Parakoyi Olubadan before becoming Maye Olubadan, Alabi distinguished himself through his vast knowledge of Yoruba history, folklore and oral traditions, while his wit and unique Ibadan expressions endeared him to many as a respected cultural authority.
The former NUJ President also highlighted Alabi’s passion for indigenous Yoruba music, particularly the Apala genre popularised by the legendary Yusuf Olatunji, saying it reflected his lifelong commitment to safeguarding the cultural values of the Yoruba race.
Ogundipe further stated that despite advancing age, the late veteran journalist remained committed to public enlightenment through his educational and cultural broadcasts on Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Space 90.1 FM and other radio stations, where he continued to inspire audiences with his historical knowledge and insightful commentaries.
Describing the death of Oloye Lekan Alabi as a painful and irreparable loss, Ogundipe said the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the League of Veteran Journalists, the Olubadan-in-Council, the media profession, Ibadanland and lovers of Yoruba culture had lost an outstanding ambassador whose legacy of professional excellence, public service, humility and cultural patriotism would continue to inspire future generations.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Oyo State Council, the League of Veteran Journalists, friends, associates and the people of Ibadanland.
“His legacy of professional excellence, public service, cultural patriotism and personal humility will continue to inspire generations of journalists, communicators and cultural enthusiasts,” Ogundipe stated.
