By Aliyu Oyewole
The Honourable Minister of Power, Mogaji Joseph Tegbe, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Lekan Alabi, describing him as an icon of culture and a distinguished elder statesman.
In a condolence message, Tegbe said he received the news of Alabi’s death with a heavy heart, noting that the late elder statesman dedicated his life to the service of Oyo State and Nigeria.
According to the minister, Alabi served meritoriously as Press Secretary to successive governors before becoming the pioneer General Manager, Corporate Affairs, of the Odu’a Group.
Tegbe said beyond his accomplishments in public service, the late Abese Olubadan remained a custodian of the Omoluabi heritage and a passionate advocate of Ibadan and Yoruba culture.
He described Alabi as a man whose wisdom, integrity and native intelligence inspired and shaped generations of journalists and public communicators.
“He was indeed an embodiment of our Omoluabi heritage,” the minister said.
Tegbe extended his heartfelt condolences to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, the Alabi family, the traditional institution and the people of Ibadanland, praying that Almighty God grants the late elder statesman eternal rest and gives his family the strength to bear the loss.
