Former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Africa Union of Journalists (AUJ), Lanre Ogundipe, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran journalist and cultural icon, Oloye Olalekan Alabi, describing his passing as a monumental loss to journalism, public service and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

It would be recalled that Oloye Alabi died on Saturday at the age of 76.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Ogundipe said the transition of the Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland marked the end of an era defined by professional excellence, integrity and unwavering commitment to the promotion of Ibadan’s history and Yoruba civilisation.

He described the late Alabi as one of the finest sons of Ibadan whose contributions to journalism, public relations and cultural advocacy would remain indelible in the nation’s history.

According to him, Alabi belonged to a generation of journalists who regarded the profession as a sacred calling, noting that his competence and integrity earned him the confidence of successive administrations.

Ogundipe recalled that the late journalist served as Press Secretary to the late former Governor of old Oyo State, Chief Bola Ige, where he worked alongside respected media professionals, Dapo Aderinola and Femi Mapaderun, helping to establish enduring standards in government communication and media relations.

He added that Alabi also served the administration of former Military Governor of old Oyo State, Major-General Oladayo Popoola (rtd.), as well as other governors, a testament to his professionalism and credibility.

Ogundipe also described the deceased as an outstanding custodian of Yoruba culture and Ibadan’s historical heritage.

“As Maye Olubadan of Ibadanland, having earlier served as Ekefa and Parakoyi Olubadan, he devoted himself to preserving and promoting the traditions, history and cultural identity of his people,” he said.

Ogundipe noted that Alabi’s vast knowledge of Yoruba history, folklore and oral tradition, as well as his passion for indigenous Yoruba music, particularly the Apala genre popularised by the late Yusuf Olatunji, distinguished him as a respected cultural authority.

He also lauded the late media icon’s commitment to public enlightenment, saying that even in the twilight of his life, Alabi remained active through educational and cultural broadcasts on Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Space 90.1 FM and other radio platforms.

According to him, Alabi’s transition is a profound loss to the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the League of Veteran Journalists, the Olubadan-in-Council, the media profession and Ibadanland.

Ogundipe said the late Alabi’s legacy of professional excellence, public service, cultural patriotism and humility would continue to inspire generations of journalists, communicators and cultural enthusiasts.

He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Olubadan-in-Council, the NUJ, the League of Veteran Journalists, friends, associates and the people of Ibadanland, praying that they find the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.