Chief Lekan Alabi, the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, veteran journalist, author and public relations practitioner, has died at 75.
Family sources confirmed that Alabi died on Saturday morning after a brief illness. They said details of his funeral arrangements would be announced at a later date.
His death marks the end of a distinguished career that spanned journalism, public relations, cultural advocacy and traditional leadership. Widely respected across Nigeria, he was celebrated for his unwavering commitment to preserving the history, culture and heritage of Ibadanland and the Yoruba people.
*Biography of Oloye Lekan Alabi*
Lekan Alabi was a renowned Nigerian journalist, author, public relations consultant, columnist, cultural ambassador, and traditional leader from Ibadan, Oyo State.
He was born on October 27, 1950, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
He began his education at Seventh-Day Adventist Primary School, Oke-Foko, Ibadan (1958–1963) and later attended *African Church Grammar School, Apata-Ganga, Ibadan* (1964–1969). After his secondary education, he briefly worked as a teacher before beginning his journalism career.
Journalism Career:
Oloye Lekan Alabi started his media career at Onibonoje Press Limited, Ibadan, where he worked as an editorial assistant.
In 1973, he joined Sketch Publishing Company Limited, Ibadan, as a reporter/writer/reader and became known for his bilingual journalism in both English and Yoruba. He later studied journalism in London and returned to Nigeria to continue his media career.
He worked with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Ibadan, from 1978 to 1982 and was among the pioneer editorial staff of the Television Service of Oyo State (now BCOS). He was also the first reporter to appear on the channel and the first chairman of its Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) chapel.
Public Service and Administration:
Lekan Alabi served as Chief Press Secretary to four governors of the old Oyo State, including his service under the administration of the late Bola Ige. His years in government communication established him as one of Nigeria’s respected public relations professionals.
He later became the pioneer General Manager of Corporate Affairs at Odu’a Investment Company Limited, where he contributed significantly to corporate communication and public relations.
Cultural and Traditional Contributions:
Beyond journalism, Oloye Lekan Alabi was a strong promoter of Yoruba culture, history, and heritage. He held traditional titles in Ibadanland and served as a cultural ambassador connected with the National Museum and Monuments, Ile-Ife.
Author and Public Speaker:
He authored books and contributed articles on history, culture, leadership, and society.
He was also known as a motivational speaker and syndicated columnist.
Legacy:
Oloye Lekan Alabi was remembered as: A veteran journalist who shaped Nigerian media.
A bridge between journalism, government communicationand culture.
A custodian of Yoruba heritage.
A mentor to younger journalists and public relations practitioners.
His life represented dedication to truth, service, culture, and professional excellence.
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