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Renowned Yoruba oral poet, actor and legendary Ijala chanter, Chief Alabi Ogundepo, has died at the age of 84.
The family of the respected cultural icon announced his death on Monday, describing his passing as a major loss to Saki, Oyo State, and Nigeria’s wider cultural community.
Ogundepo was celebrated for his decades-long contribution to Yoruba literature, oral tradition and cultural preservation. Through his poetry, performances and storytelling, he helped keep important aspects of Yoruba heritage alive for generations.
In a statement issued on behalf of the family by Dupe Ogundepo, the late poet was remembered as a man whose words, character and artistic contributions earned him widespread respect.
The family described his death as the end of an important chapter but noted that his cultural legacy would continue to endure through his works and the lives he influenced.
“His presence commanded respect, while his words often inspired reflection and appreciation of our shared heritage,” the statement said.
The family added that although they were mourning the loss of a beloved father, husband, grandfather, relative and friend, they remained comforted by the legacy he left behind.
“While the family mourns the passing of a beloved father, husband, grandfather, relative and friend, we are also comforted by the enduring legacy he leaves behind through his writings, relationships, values and contributions to society,” it said.
The family further stated that Ogundepo’s voice and poetry would continue to live on despite his death.
“Chief Alabi Ogundepo may have departed this world, but his voice, his poetry and the memories he created will continue to live on,” the statement added.
Funeral arrangements for the late cultural icon are expected to be announced by his family at a later date.
Ogundepo’s Contribution To Ijala Poetry
Alabi Ogundepo was widely recognised for his performances as an Ijala chanter, a traditional Yoruba form of oral poetry strongly associated with hunters and the celebration of their exploits.
Through his performances, he delivered praise poetry celebrating hunters while also narrating hunting experiences in vivid and engaging forms.
His mastery of Yoruba language, poetry and oral performance made him an important figure in the preservation of traditional storytelling and cultural expression.
His contribution extended beyond entertainment, as his work helped pass aspects of Yoruba history, values and traditions from one generation to another.
Monarch Mourns Cultural Icon
Reacting to Ogundepo’s death, the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi Oyedepo III, expressed sadness over the passing of the veteran cultural figure.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, the monarch described Ogundepo as an important contributor to the cultural identity and development of Saki through his artistic works.
The statement identified the late poet as “a distinguished custodian of Yoruba cultural heritage” whose talent and dedication contributed significantly to preserving Ijala poetry for successive generations.
The monarch also highlighted Ogundepo’s role in promoting the cultural identity of Saki.
According to the monarch, the late poet’s artistic contributions included composing the Saki Anthem, further demonstrating his connection to the community and its heritage.
“The Okere of Sakiland, Oba Dr Surv. Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, has expressed sadness over the death of renowned Yoruba traditional oral artist and legendary Ijala poet, Chief Alabi Ogundepo,” the statement said.
The monarch noted that Ogundepo’s cultural contributions would remain an important part of Saki’s history.
A Lasting Cultural Legacy
Ogundepo’s death represents another loss for Nigeria’s traditional arts community, particularly the Yoruba cultural space where oral poetry remains an important form of preserving history and identity.
His work as an Ijala performer allowed him to combine language, rhythm, storytelling and cultural knowledge to entertain audiences while passing down traditional values.
Beyond his performances, he was also remembered as an actor and literary figure whose career reflected a deep commitment to Yoruba culture.
Although he is no longer alive to continue his performances, his writings, poetry and recorded works are expected to preserve his voice for future generations.
For the people of Saki and lovers of Yoruba culture, the death of Chief Alabi Ogundepo marks the departure of a respected custodian of tradition whose artistic contributions helped strengthen the connection between the present generation and Yoruba heritage.
As his family prepares to announce funeral arrangements, tributes are expected to continue pouring in for the late cultural icon.
His words may have fallen silent, but his poetry, cultural contributions and influence are set to remain part of the Yoruba heritage he spent his life preserving.
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