Veteran Journalist and Traditional Chief Lekan Alabi Dies at 76

Veteran journalist and traditional leader Lekan Alabi, the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, died on Saturday, August 1, 2026, in Lagos at the age of 76. Alabi had a distinguished career in public relations and government, serving as the Chief Press Secretary to four successive governors of Oyo State between 1983 and 1989. He also served as the general manager of corporate affairs at Odu’a Investment Company Limited and as the Cultural Ambassador of the Source in Ile-Ife.

President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, issued statements mourning the loss. Tinubu described Alabi as a consummate journalist and public relations expert, while Governor Makinde called his passing a monumental loss to the state. The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes also released a statement celebrating Alabi's contributions to historical documentation and the preservation of Yoruba culture.

Adeola Oloko, media aide to the Olubadan, announced that Alabi will be buried on Sunday, August 2, 2026, in accordance with Islamic rites.