Veteran Yoruba Chanter Alabi Ogundepo Dies At 84

Veteran Yoruba oral poet, actor and legendary Ìjálá chanter, Chief Alabi Ogundepo, has died at the age of 84.

Ogundepo, who was born in Saki, Oyo State, reportedly passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026.

His death was announced by his family and subsequently confirmed through tributes from his children and members of the cultural community in Oyo State.

The veteran artiste was widely regarded as one of the prominent voices in Yoruba traditional oral poetry, particularly Ìjálá, a form of praise poetry traditionally associated with hunters.

Beyond his career as an Ìjálá chanter, Ogundepo also made remarkable contributions to Yoruba theatre and acting, using his talents to promote and preserve the Yoruba language, culture and traditional artistic expressions.

His distinctive performance style, rich knowledge of Yoruba oral traditions and mastery of traditional poetry earned him widespread recognition among cultural practitioners and lovers of Yoruba arts.

His death has therefore been described as a major loss to Yoruba cultural heritage, with tributes pouring in from members of the cultural community who celebrated his contributions to the preservation of indigenous traditions.

Ogundepo’s passing comes at a time when concerns remain about the preservation of traditional Yoruba oral arts and the transmission of indigenous cultural knowledge to younger generations.

He will be remembered for using his art to keep alive the rich traditions of Yoruba oral poetry and for inspiring generations of cultural enthusiasts.

The family is expected to announce details of his burial arrangements in due course.