The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Foundation have expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran journalist, author and Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, describing his passing as a monumental loss to journalism, Oyo State, Ibadanland and Nigeria.
Oloye Alabi, 76, reportedly died on Saturday morning in Lagos, leaving behind an enduring legacy of professionalism, intellectual excellence, public service and commitment to the preservation of Yoruba history and culture.
In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ Oyo State Council Chairman, Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, the union described the late Alabi as an exceptional journalist whose contributions transcended news reporting, noting that his courage, professionalism and intellectual depth earned him widespread respect across the country.
The council said Alabi consistently deployed journalism as a tool for public enlightenment, responsible communication and societal development throughout his distinguished career.
It further noted that his service as Press Secretary to successive governors of Oyo State reflected his outstanding communication skills, administrative competence and ability to function effectively in government.
According to the NUJ, the late media icon was a repository of knowledge on the history, culture and traditions of Ibadanland, whose invaluable contributions to documenting and promoting the city’s rich heritage would remain indelible.
The union lamented that his death had created a huge vacuum in both the journalism profession and the traditional institution, adding that replacing a personality of his experience, wisdom and stature would be difficult.
Similarly, the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Foundation described Chief Lekan Alabi as a distinguished statesman, media icon and steadfast pillar of support whose commitment to the ideals and philosophy of the late Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola was unwavering.
In a statement jointly signed by the Foundation’s Coordinator, Yemi Adedokun, and Public Relations Officer, Remi Oladoye, the Foundation said the late Alabi firmly believed in the principles of purposeful leadership, integrity and selfless service to humanity, values that defined the life and legacy of Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola.
The Foundation noted that beyond his remarkable achievements in journalism, Chief Alabi was an embodiment of Yoruba culture and traditions as well as a passionate promoter of historical truth, whose vast knowledge enriched generations of scholars, journalists, public office holders and cultural enthusiasts.
“Chief Lekan Alabi was more than a media icon.
He was a repository of history, a respected custodian of culture and a dependable ally of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Foundation. His wise counsel, unwavering support and dedication to preserving historical truth will be greatly missed,” the statement read.
The NUJ and the Foundation commiserated with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Alabi family, the people of Ibadanland and the Nigerian media community over the painful loss.
They acknowledged the deceased’s immense contributions to the growth of journalism in Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that generations of journalists benefited from his mentorship, counsel and exemplary professionalism.
The organisations urged journalists, particularly younger practitioners, to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, courage, intellectual excellence and public service that distinguished Oloye Lekan Alabi throughout his illustrious career.
They prayed Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him eternal rest in Aljanatul Firdaus, and give his family, friends and associates the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
