The Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, and the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, have expressed sorrow over the demise of Oloye Lekan Alabi, a senior Ibadan Chief, veteran journalist, outstanding public affairs analyst, distinguished elder statesman, cultural icon, and respected community leader.
Makinde described Chief Alabi’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Oyo State but to Nigeria as a whole, noting his invaluable contributions to journalism, culture, and public service.
He said, “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 extended heartfelt condolences to Chief Alabi’s family, friends, and associates, as well as to the Ibadan community and the wider Oyo State. He urged all who mourn to take solace in the enduring impact of Chief Alabi’s life and work.
“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.
Also, the APC governorship candidate, Alli, expressed condolences over the passing of Alabi.
Alli, in a condolence message personally signed and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Ibadan, described Alabi’s death as a monumental loss to Ibadanland, Oyo State, and Nigeria.
He said Alabi was a towering personality whose career in journalism, public service, and the traditional institution reflected intellectual excellence, integrity, deep knowledge, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Ibadanland.
The APC candidate said Alabi’s contributions transcended journalism and public service, stressing that his wisdom, dignity, experience and commitment to the progress of Ibadanland made him a significant figure within the traditional institution.
He noted that the deceased’s service as Press Secretary to successive Oyo State governors demonstrated his uncommon mastery of communication, government affairs and public relations.
“Lekan Alabi was a towering personality, an accomplished journalist, distinguished public servant, and revered traditional chief whose life was devoted to service, knowledge, and the advancement of society.
“His passing is a painful and irreplaceable loss. Ibadanland has lost a custodian of its history and values, while the journalism profession has lost one of its finest voices and most experienced practitioners.
“His footprints in journalism, public service, and the traditional institution remain indelible. His legacy will continue to inspire generations and serve as a reminder of the power of knowledge, integrity, and service to humanity,” Alli said.
He commiserated with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, the entire Ibadan traditional institution, the Alabi family, journalists and associates of the deceased.
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