The Lekan Alabi dies at 76 news has shaken Ibadanland and Nigeria’s media community. Veteran journalist and former press secretary to successive Oyo State governors passed away Saturday morning in Lagos.
Alhaji Lekan Alabi, who held the traditional title of Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, was 76. His death was announced in a statement by Adeola Oloko, Media Aide to the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
WHAT HAPPENED TO LEKAN ALABI
Family sources confirmed the veteran journalist died in Lagos. Burial will hold on Sunday in accordance with Islamic rites. Details of funeral activities are expected from the family.
The Olubadan Palace press release described him as “multiple press secretary to former Oyo State Governors.” It noted his passing and expressed condolences to Ibadanland and the media fraternity.
Alabi was widely respected in journalism, public communication and public service. He served several administrations in Oyo State and built a reputation for clarity and loyalty.
His role extended beyond government. As Abese Olubadan, he was a prominent figure in traditional institution affairs within the Olubadan chieftaincy line in Ibadan.
A CAREER IN JOURNALISM AND PUBLIC SERVICE
Lekan Alabi began his career in newsrooms before moving into government communication. He worked with successive Oyo governors as press secretary and media strategist.
Colleagues described him as calm, precise and deeply knowledgeable about Oyo politics. He handled crisis communication, policy messaging and press relations for decades.
In government, he bridged the media and the seat of power. His briefings were known for accuracy. He avoided sensationalism and prioritised factual reporting during turbulent periods.
Outside government, Alabi remained active in journalism circles. He mentored younger reporters and contributed to discussions on ethics, professionalism and media independence.
His title as Abese Olubadan placed him at the heart of Ibadan traditional governance. He advised on palace communication and represented the Olubadan on public matters.
The Abese stool is significant in Ibadanland. It involves cultural duties and community engagement. Alabi carried both responsibilities with dignity until his death.
Tributes have poured in from journalists, politicians and traditional leaders. Many recalled his guidance during elections, transitions and moments of public tension in Oyo.
Governor’s offices past and present are expected to issue statements. His service cut across party lines, making him a unifying figure in Oyo’s political history.
Family members said he was in Lagos for medical reasons. He had been receiving treatment before his condition worsened early Saturday morning.
The burial in Ibadan will follow Islamic tradition. Islamic rites will be observed with prayers at the family home and at the palace before interment.
Traditional chiefs will attend. Members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors are also expected at the funeral.
Alabi’s death comes at a time when veteran journalists are dwindling. His generation shaped reporting in the southwest and trained many who now lead newsrooms.
In Oyo, he was known for discretion. He rarely sought the spotlight. His work was behind the scenes, ensuring governors’ messages reached the public clearly.
He also wrote and edited. Colleagues credit him with improving government press statements and making them accessible to both elite and grassroots audiences.
As Abese Olubadan, he helped manage palace relations with the media. He ensured accurate coverage of Olubadan activities and traditional festivals in Ibadan.
His passing leaves a gap in both journalism and traditional leadership. Few combined media expertise with chieftaincy responsibility as effectively as he did.
The Media Aide to the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, announced the death. The palace described Alabi as a loyal son of Ibadanland who served with honour.
News of Lekan Alabi dies at 76 spread quickly on Saturday. Radio stations in Ibadan interrupted programs. Social media tributes referenced his calm voice and steady counsel.
Oyo State Council of the NUJ is planning a tribute. Members described him as a bridge between the press and government who never compromised truth.
He was not just a spokesman. He understood policy. Governors relied on him to explain complex decisions to citizens in simple Yoruba and English.
During elections, he managed media strategy. During crises, he coordinated responses. His experience helped stabilise communication in several administrations.
In traditional circles, he promoted Ibadan culture. He spoke on the importance of chieftaincy in preserving history and community values.
Younger journalists remember his advice. “Verify first, publish later,” was a line many quoted. He believed credibility was a journalist’s greatest asset.
The Lekan Alabi dies at 76 announcement has prompted reflections on media and governance. His career showed how communication can serve both state and society.
Burial arrangements are ongoing. The family said further details will be released. Sunday’s Islamic rites are expected to draw a large gathering in Ibadan.
The Olubadan is expected to lead prayers. Government officials, traditional rulers and media executives will likely be present to pay last respects.
Alabi’s legacy is twofold. In journalism, he set standards. In Ibadanland, he upheld tradition. Both roles earned him respect across generations.
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Nigeria has lost a communicator who valued facts over noise. Oyo has lost an aide who served multiple governors with consistency.
Ibadanland has lost Abese Olubadan. The title will be vacant until the Olubadan appoints a successor according to tradition.
For now, mourners remember a man who served quietly but effectively. Lekan Alabi dies at 76, but his impact on Oyo media and Ibadan culture will endure.
