A Walking Encyclopedia Has Fallen' — Adron Group MD Pays Glowing Tribute to Oloye Lekan Alabi

**The Managing Director of Adron Group, Mrs. Nike Ajobo, has described the late Oloye Lekan Alabi as "a walking encyclopedia" whose death has created a vacuum in Nigeria's intellectual and cultural landscape, saying the Southwest has lost one of its finest custodians of history, values and Yoruba heritage.**

Ajobo made the remarks during a condolence visit to the family of the late Ibadan High Chief, where she reflected on the remarkable life and enduring legacy of the renowned historian, public relations icon, cultural ambassador and mentor.

Overcome with emotion, she said the news of Oloye Alabi's passing was almost impossible for her to believe.

"It was unbelievable. Shock is even an understatement. I was heartbroken and deeply disappointed. I had to call his first daughter, Dupe, before I could believe the news. But we do not have power over death. We can only submit to the will of God," she said.

Describing the late elder statesman as an irreplaceable intellectual giant, Ajobo declared that his death was a loss not only to Oyo State but to the entire nation.

> "A walking encyclopedia has fallen. Something significant has left Nigeria, the Southwest and Oyo State. Oloye Lekan Alabi was content-loaded. He was an outstanding historian whose depth of knowledge was extraordinary. How many leaders do we still have today who possess the kind of historical and cultural knowledge that he had?"

Ajobo disclosed that the late Oloye Alabi mentored her for almost two decades during their time at Odua Investment Company, noting that his influence shaped her career, leadership style and personal philosophy.

"He groomed me for almost 20 years at Odua Investment. He was a man I understood very well. He was exceptionally cerebral, a brilliant orator, a respected cultural ambassador and a true custodian of Yoruba values. Every encounter with him was a learning experience."

She recalled that one of the defining moments in her life came when she contemplated relocating abroad in search of greener pastures, but Oloye Alabi persuaded her to have faith in Nigeria.

"There was a time I wanted to japa, but he changed my orientation completely. He believed so much in Nigeria. He encouraged me to appreciate what I have, believe in my country and remain proud of my culture and Yoruba ethos. That conversation changed my life."

Ajobo noted that despite his towering intellect, Oloye Alabi remained approachable, humorous and generous with his knowledge.

"There was never a dull moment with him. He had an amazing sense of humour and always made people comfortable. He freely shared his wisdom and never stopped mentoring those around him. I am grateful that he continued giving value until his very last breath."

She further credited the late High Chief with instilling in her the virtues of excellence, organisation and foresight.

"He taught me how to become a super organiser. He mentored me in event management, taught me to be proactive and inspired me to strive for excellence in everything I do. Those lessons remain invaluable to me."

Ajobo also revealed that she had hoped to witness Oloye Lekan Alabi become the Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing him as a man who embodied dignity, class and exemplary leadership.

"I sincerely looked forward to seeing him become the Olubadan. He represented excellence and carried himself with grace. His life was one of purpose and selfless service."

Praying for the bereaved family, she asked God to grant them the strength to bear the painful loss.

"My prayers are with the entire family, especially his children. I pray that Almighty God grants them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and gives them the strength to preserve the remarkable legacy he has left behind."

Widely celebrated as one of Nigeria's foremost historians and public relations practitioners, Oloye Lekan Alabi dedicated decades of his life to promoting Yoruba culture, preserving history and mentoring generations of leaders and professionals. His passing marks the end of an era, but the values and knowledge he imparted continue to resonate across Oyo State and beyond.