OSOGBO — Veteran Yoruba oral poet, actor and legendary Ijala chanter, Chief Alabi Ogundepo, is dead.
The Saki-born cultural icon died on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the age of 84. Some reports cited 85 or 86. His death was announced by his family and confirmed in tributes by his children and members of the cultural community in Oyo State.
In a statement signed by his daughter, Mrs. Dupe Ogundepo Falana, on behalf of the family, the family said he was “a remarkable literary voice whose poetry and writings reflected his deep appreciation of Yoruba culture, tradition, language, history and the human experience”.
Born in Saki, Oyo State, Chief Ogundepo rose to prominence as one of the most distinguished voices in Yoruba oral literature. He was widely celebrated as a master of Ijala, the traditional Yoruba hunters’ chant, as well as Oriki and other forms of Yoruba praise poetry. He learned the art from his father, Chief Fatokun Alabi Ese.
For more than five decades, he performed, recorded and promoted Ijala poetry on stage, radio and television. He became a household name through public service jingles on Radio Oyo and NTA Ibadan, including the popular “Eso Pele Onimoto Rora Saare” campaign, and he also produced the cultural programme “Akiika” for NTA Ibadan.
Beyond his artistry, the family described him as “a man of dignity, wisdom and compassion” who touched many lives through his counsel, friendship and commitment to community development.
“His presence commanded respect, while his words often inspired reflection and appreciation of our shared heritage,” the family said.
One of his children, Alabi Ogundepo Olaogun, mourned him in a tribute titled “And the Bunch of Talents Slept”.
The family said his creative works and public engagements contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba cultural heritage.
“Chief Alabi Ogundepo may have departed this world, but his voice, his poetry and the memories he created will continue to live on,” the family added.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course. The family has requested privacy and prayers as they come to terms with the loss.
