Chief Alabi Ogundepo, a renowned Saki-born poet, writer, cultural enthusiast and respected community leader, has died at the age of 84.
The Ogundepo family announced his death on Sunday, August 24, 2026, describing his passing as a profound loss to the people of Saki, Oyo State, and the wider Yoruba literary and cultural community.
In a statement signed by Dupe Ogundepo Falana on behalf of the family, the family said it received the news of the elder statesman’s death with deep sadness, while acknowledging his remarkable contributions to literature, culture and community development.
Chief Ogundepo was widely respected for his passion for Yoruba language, poetry, culture and intellectual expression. Through his writings and engagement with traditional and contemporary Yoruba cultural values, he contributed to the preservation and promotion of the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.
Born and raised in Saki, in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State, Ogundepo remained closely connected to his roots and was regarded as one of the notable voices who promoted the cultural identity and traditions of the community.
His literary works and cultural engagements earned him recognition beyond Saki, particularly among those committed to the preservation of Yoruba literature, oral traditions and indigenous knowledge.
Beyond his literary and cultural pursuits, the deceased was also regarded as a respected community figure whose wisdom, experience and commitment to his people made him an influential voice within his community.
The family described his death as a significant loss, noting that his departure has left a vacuum that will be difficult to fill.
Tributes are expected to continue to pour in from family members, friends, literary figures, cultural organisations, community leaders and admirers as news of his death spreads across Oyo State and beyond.
Chief Alabi Ogundepo is survived by his children, grandchildren and other members of his extended family.
Details of his burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.
His death marks the passing of another notable custodian of Yoruba culture and literary heritage, leaving behind a legacy that is expected to endure through his writings, cultural contributions and the lives he influenced.