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Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, lawmaker representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, legal luminary and human rights advocate, Femi Falana, former Deputy Governor, Senator Biodun Olujimi, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other eminent Nigerians on Saturday paid glowing tributes to the late Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I.
They described the late monarch as an exemplary monarch, accomplished diplomat and visionary leader whose reign between 2011 and 2026 transformed Ilawe-Ekiti.
The dignitaries spoke during a thanksgiving mass in honour of the late monarch held at St. John Pro-Cathedral, Ilawe-Ekiti, where they celebrated his remarkable contributions to the development of Ilawe-Ekiti, Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.
In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Reverend Felix Ajakaiye, urged the people of Ilawe-Ekiti to preserve the legacy of peace, unity and selfless service left behind by the late monarch.
He described the gathering as a celebration of a life well spent, rather than an occasion for mourning, while also encouraging everyone to use their God-given talents for the common good.
The Bishop also appealed to the people of Ilawe-Ekiti to remain united during the transition period, warning against any form of discord in the selection of a new Alawe.
He charged the kingmakers to ensure that merit, integrity and competence guide the choice of the next monarch.
“There are people already preparing for the throne, but not all have the capacity or the will to serve. Let merit prevail. Do not cut corners. God is watching. We want the best successor, one who will even surpass the achievements of the late Alawe.
“Let us be builders and not destroyers. Let us embrace positivity and not negativity. Whatever position we find ourselves in, let us do the will of God and use our talents to glorify Him”.
Former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Senator Biodun Olujimi, described the late monarch as a compassionate and approachable traditional ruler who devoted himself to the welfare of his people.
According to her, Oba Alabi remained humble despite his exalted position and was always willing to listen and provide guidance whenever needed.
“I spoke with him just about four days before he passed. He apologised for not keeping in touch, which showed the kind of humble person he was. He loved Ilawe passionately and worked tirelessly for its progress. The community will greatly miss him”. She said
Speaking on behalf of the royal family, the Regent of the Town, Princess Fadekemi Alabi, described her father as a disciplined, hardworking and visionary leader whose life inspired countless people.
She noted that the overwhelming tributes and goodwill messages received since his passing reflected the tremendous impact he made during his lifetime.
“He was a unifier who always brought people together and inspired the best in others.
“He believed that no dream was impossible if one was willing to work hard. I urge everyone to take a cue from his life because hard work and dedication can help anyone achieve greatness”.
A media adviser to the late monarch, High Chief Ajibade Olubunmi, also described Oba Alabi as the architect of modern Ilawe, attributing several landmark developments in the community to his leadership.
He listed major achievements recorded during the monarch’s reign to include improved road infrastructure, enhanced unity among residents, the establishment of a Federal College of Education and ongoing efforts to secure a campus of the Nigerian Law School for the town.
Also speaking, the late monarch’s younger brother, Professor Adetayo Alabi, described Oba Alabi as an exceptional leader whose brilliance, discipline and selflessness defined his life from childhood.
According to him, Oba Alabi devoted virtually every hour of his life to the development of Ilawe-Ekiti, often working late into the night and resuming official engagements before dawn.
He explained that while serving as a diplomat, the late monarch consistently pursued the vision through extensive lobbying, strategic engagements and correspondence with relevant authorities until it became a reality during his reign.
