The Yoruba cultural world is mourning the death of veteran poet and Ìjàlà master Alabi Ogundepo at 84.
Ogundepo, an actor and cultural advocate from Saki, Oyo State, died on Monday, according to his family.
His daughter, Dupe Ogundepo-Falana, announced the death in a family statement. The cause was not disclosed.
For over six decades, Ogundepo used Ìjàlà to preserve Yoruba language, history and traditional values.
Ìjàlà is a traditional Yoruba oral poetry linked to hunters, Ogun worship and community storytelling.
The family described Ogundepo as “a remarkable literary voice” who devoted his life to Yoruba culture.
“Through his creative works and public engagements, he contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of his people,” the family said.
His family also remembered him as a man of “dignity, wisdom and compassion” who influenced many people.
“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 said.
Tributes have since emerged from cultural figures and traditional leaders following the Alabi Ogundepo death.
The Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, described his death as a major loss.
His son, Alabi Ogundepo Olaogun, also paid tribute, writing, “And the Bunch of Talents Slept.”
Ogundepo took Ìjàlà beyond traditional gatherings through radio, television, stage performances and recordings.
He was associated with Radio Oyo and NTA Ibadan, where he promoted Yoruba language and cultural knowledge.
His cultural programme, Akiika, focused on Yoruba history, oral literature, language and traditions.
UNESCO cultural records also identify Ogundepo among notable professional Ìjàlà performers.
His work attracted scholars who studied the growth and survival of Yoruba oral poetry.
