Ekiti loses a revered monarch as Senator Opeyemi Bamidele pays tribute to Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi’s impactful reign.

Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has expressed profound grief over the passing of the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti Kingdom, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi (Afuntade I), describing his death as a major loss to Ekiti State and the traditional institution.

Bamidele also extended his condolences to the Government of Ekiti State, the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, and the Ekiti South-West Local Government Area over the demise of the monarch.
In a statement issued on Tuesday through his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, the Senate Leader described the late Oba Alabi as a visionary traditional ruler, experienced diplomat, and dedicated community builder.
He noted that during Oba Alabi’s reign, Ilawe-Ekiti recorded remarkable developmental progress, stressing that the monarch was deeply committed to the unity and advancement of both Ilawe-Ekiti and Ekiti State.
According to him, before ascending the throne in 2012, Oba Alabi served for 25 years in Nigeria’s Foreign Service at the directorate level, with postings in Nigerian diplomatic missions in countries such as Cameroon and South Africa.
He added that under the late monarch’s leadership, Ilawe-Ekiti witnessed notable improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, industrial growth, and digital connectivity, while he also strongly advocated for constitutional recognition of traditional rulers due to their grassroots influence.
Bamidele further stated that the monarch’s leadership elevated Ilawe-Ekiti’s profile and strengthened the traditional institution across Ekiti State and Yorubaland, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers from 2019 to 2021.
He also commended the late ruler’s commitment to unity among traditional rulers, noting his leadership roles in both the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Ekiti South-West Traditional Council.
He described Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi as a monarch of peace, wisdom, and exceptional dedication, adding that his legacies of development, unity, and selfless service would remain enduring references for generations.
The Senate Leader extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the people of Ilawe-Ekiti Kingdom, the Ekiti State Traditional Council, and the entire Ekiti State, praying for divine strength for all to bear the loss.