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The ancient city of Ibadan and the Nigerian media fraternity were thrown into mourning on Saturday, August 1, 2026, following the death of veteran journalist, public relations icon, and Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Lekan Alabi.
The Olubadan Palace confirmed in a press statement signed by the Media Aide to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Mr. Adeola Oloko, that the highly respected chief passed away in the early hours of Thursday in Lagos. He was 76 years old.
According to the Palace release, Alabi, who served as Chief Press Secretary to multiple former Governors of Oyo State, died after a brief illness.
Family sources disclosed that burial arrangements have been concluded and the late media guru will be interred on Sunday, August 2, 2026, in accordance with Islamic rites. Further details on funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
Chief Lekan Alabi was one of the most respected voices in Nigerian journalism and government communication. Over several decades, he served with distinction as Chief Press Secretary to different administrations in Oyo State, where he earned a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and deep knowledge of governance.
His calm demeanor, mastery of language, and commitment to truth made him a reference point for younger journalists and public affairs officers across the country. Beyond government service, Alabi was a mentor to many in the media industry and was widely consulted for his wealth of experience in media management and crisis communication.
In recognition of his contributions to the growth of Ibadanland and his unblemished service to humanity, the Olubadan of Ibadanland conferred on him the traditional chieftaincy title of _Abese Olubadan_.
In that capacity, Chief Alabi served the Olubadan-in-Council with dedication, offering wise counsel and helping to project the image and values of Ibadanland both at home and in the diaspora. His transition is therefore seen as a great loss not only to his immediate family but to the entire Ibadan traditional institution.
News of his passing has continued to elicit grief and tributes from colleagues, political associates, and admirers across Oyo State and beyond. Many described him as a “quintessential journalist,” a “gentleman to the core,” and a bridge-builder who used his pen and voice to promote peace and development.
The Olubadan Palace, in the statement, prayed for the repose of his soul and urged the family to take solace in the fact that the late Abese Olubadan lived a fulfilled life of service to God, to the media profession, to Oyo State, and to Ibadanland.
May the soul of Chief Lekan Alabi rest in perfect peace.
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