The remains of veteran journalist, public relations expert and Ibadan high chief, Lekan Alabi, were laid to rest on Sunday at Eternal Homes, Fiditi, in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The final rites began in Ibadan with a Janazah prayer at his Akobo residence. The atmosphere was solemn as family members, professional colleagues, political associates and admirers gathered to pay their last respects to the man widely regarded as one of Ibadan’s foremost media icons.

The Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Agbotomokekere, led the Janazah prayer.

Immediately after the prayers, the body was conveyed in a funeral procession to Fiditi, where a large crowd of indigenes, traditional leaders and government functionaries had gathered to receive him.

At the burial in Fiditi, tributes poured in for the late Abese of Olubadan.

Alabi was a towering figure in Nigerian journalism and public service. He served as Press Secretary to four governors of the old Oyo State between 1983 and 1989, a period during which he worked with some of the state’s most notable political leaders. His tenure was marked by professionalism and an uncommon commitment to public service.

Beyond government, Alabi made his mark in the media industry. He was a respected columnist, public relations consultant and mentor to younger journalists. Many of today’s media practitioners in Oyo State and beyond credited him with providing guidance and support at critical points in their careers.

As the Abese of Olubadan, he was also deeply involved in traditional affairs. He was known for offering wise counsel to the Olubadan-in-Council and promoting unity among Ibadan chiefs. His chieftaincy title, he often said, was a call to serve the people with truth and dignity.

Tribune online reported on Saturday that Alabi died in Lagos at the age of 76. News of his passing drew condolences from across the country, with media bodies, professional associations and political leaders describing his death as a great loss to journalism and public service.

The burial ceremony was attended by family members, associates, colleagues, traditional rulers, government officials and well-wishers who came to bid him a final farewell.