The late Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland and former Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to four past governors of Oyo State, Oloye Olalekan Alabi, was on Sunday laid to rest in Ibadan according to Islamic rites.

Alabi, a veteran journalist, public relations practitioner, author and respected cultural ambassador, died on Saturday in Lagos at the age of 76.

The Janazah (funeral prayer) was led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiy Abubakar, at the deceased’s residence in the Akobo area of Ibadan.

Following the funeral prayers, Alabi was interred at the Eternal Home Cemetery along the Ibadan–Oyo Expressway.

The burial attracted family members, friends, associates, media practitioners, traditional rulers, government officials and other well-wishers, who gathered to pay their last respects to the late Ibadan chief.

Until his death, Alabi was widely regarded as one of Oyo State’s most accomplished communication professionals, having served as Chief Press Secretary to four successive governors and earned national recognition for his contributions to journalism, public relations and public communication.

He was also a prominent custodian of Yoruba cultural heritage, using his writings, public lectures and media engagements to preserve the history and traditions of Ibadanland and the Yoruba people.

Alabi played an active role in the traditional institution while remaining a respected voice in national discourse through newspaper articles, books, radio commentaries and public affairs engagements.

His death has continued to attract tributes from media organisations, professional bodies, traditional institutions, public office holders and admirers across the country, who described him as an exceptional communicator, mentor and cultural icon whose legacy will endure for generations.