Adams mourns Alabi, says he was Exceptional in Journalism, Public Service

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has expressed sadness over the death of veteran journalist and Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, on Saturday, August 1, at the age of 76.

In a statement on Monday, Adams extended condolences to the family of the Late Alabi, describing him as a distinguished journalist and public servant whose legacy left an indelible mark on the profession, Ibadanland, Oyo State and indeed, Yorubaland.

“Oloye Lekan Alabi was not only a veteran journalist but also a trusted public servant who served as press secretary to four successive governors of Oyo State. His career spanned decades, during which he demonstrated unwavering dedication to the principles of journalism and public service.

“His death is widely regarded as an irreparable loss to the journalism profession, the city of Ibadan, the public service of Oyo State, and indeed, the entire Yorubaland,” he said.

Adams described the late journalist as a beacon of integrity and professionalism, whose contributions transcended the newsroom to impact governance and community development positively.

According to the Aare Ona Kakanfo, Oloye Alabi’s commitment to truthful reporting and his role in shaping public discourse were exemplary and set a high standard for journalists across Nigeria.

He noted that Oloye Alabi’s service as press secretary to four former Oyo State governors was a testament to his exceptional skills, reliability, and the trust he earned from political leaders.

Adams said that the Late Alabi’s ability to navigate the complexities of political communication while maintaining journalistic ethics made him a unique figure in the media landscape, emphasising that such a combination of professionalism and loyalty was rare and worthy of emulation.

Iba Adams also noted that beyond professional achievements, Oloye Lekan Alabi was a pillar in the society, with his influence extending to mentoring young journalists and public servants, and fostering a culture of excellence and dedication.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo said Alabi’s death leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, not only in the media fraternity but also in the broader societal fabric of Oyo State and Yorubaland.

He urged the people of Ibadan and Oyo State to remember Oloye Alabi’s legacy by upholding the values he championed throughout his life.

“As the Yoruba nation mourns, let us note that the life and achievements of Oloye Lekan Alabi are beacons for future generations of journalists and public servants who aspire to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation at large,” Adams said.