Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) have expressed profound grief over the death of renowned Ibadan chief, veteran journalist, historian and public affairs analyst, Chief Lekan Alabi, describing his passing as a monumental loss to Oyo State, Nigeria and the global Ibadan community.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde described the late Chief Alabi as one of Oyo State’s finest sons whose contributions to journalism, public service and the preservation of Yoruba culture would remain indelible.
The governor said Chief Alabi was a man of immense wisdom, integrity and dedication, whose voice consistently reflected truth and whose counsel was sought by leaders across generations.
“Chief Lekan 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,” Makinde said.
He noted that the late elder statesman devoted his life to promoting the values and cultural heritage of the Yoruba people while serving as a respected journalist, public affairs analyst and community leader.
Governor Makinde extended his heartfelt condolences to the Alabi family, friends and associates, as well as the Ibadan community and the people of Oyo State, urging them to take solace in the enduring impact of the deceased’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,” the governor added.
Similarly, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) described the death of Chief Alabi, the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, as a painful and monumental loss to Ibadanland and beyond.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, for the President-General, Chief Sulaimon Adeniyi Ajewole, the council said it received the news of the elder statesman’s passing with profound shock and deep sadness.
The CCII described Chief Alabi as more than a distinguished son of Ibadanland, portraying him as a symbol of excellence, a foremost historian, accomplished public intellectual, renowned communicator and one of the greatest promoters of the rich cultural heritage and history of the ancient city.
According to the council, the late chief dedicated his intellect, influence, and energy throughout his lifetime to projecting the positive image of Ibadanland within Nigeria and across the world.
It noted that his outstanding contributions to historical documentation, cultural preservation, public service and national development earned him a permanent place in the annals of Ibadan history.
The council also stated that his books, lectures, public engagements and unwavering advocacy for the traditions, values and progress of Ibadanland would remain enduring treasures for generations to come.
CCII said the late elder statesman’s demise had created a vacuum that would not be easily filled, especially at a time when society needed the wisdom, experience and patriotic commitment of leaders of his calibre.
The council extended its condolences to the Alabi family, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Government and all those mourning the loss.
While mourning his passing, the council celebrated what it described as a life of honour, integrity, scholarship, patriotism, humility and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity.
It added that Chief Lekan Alabi’s enduring legacy would continue to inspire present and future generations to serve Ibadanland with dedication, dignity and selflessness.
The CCII prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and divine comfort for his family, friends, associates and the entire people of Ibadanland, stressing that although Chief Lekan Alabi had departed this world, his legacy would forever remain woven into the rich history and soul of Ibadanland.
