The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has condoled with the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Ladoja and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over the death of Lekan Alabi, a high-ranking traditional chief who passed on at 76.

Mr Alabi, the Abese Olubadan of Ibadanland, was a seasoned journalist and successful public relations consultant. He was also a historian who loved to promote and preserve the Yoruba culture and tradition.

He died in Lagos on Saturday and was buried on Sunday in accordance with Islamic rites.

“High Chief Lekan Alabi dedicated his life to the promotion of truth, cultural values and responsible public communication,” Mr Ogunwusu said in a statement on Sunday. “He was a respected custodian of history, a refined public relations strategist and a worthy ambassador of Yoruba civilisation whose influence extended far beyond Ibadanland.”

The Ooni further described Mr Alabi’s demise as a “monumental loss” to the Yoruba population.

“His passing has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill. He served the Yoruba race with uncommon devotion and remained committed to strengthening the dignity of our traditional institutions through knowledge, diplomacy and exemplary service,” he said.