Veteran Yoruba actor, Ijala master Alabi Ogundepo dies at 84

Veteran Yoruba actor, Ijala master Alabi Ogundepo dies at 84

Veteran Yoruba actor and traditional poet Alabi Ogundepo, renowned for his mastery of Ijala poetry, has died at the age of 84.

Ogundepo reportedly died on Monday, August 24, 2026, after a lifetime devoted to Yoruba culture, language, literature and traditional arts.

His death was announced by his daughter, Dupe Ogundepo-Falana, in a statement issued on behalf of the family.

The family described Ogundepo as a “remarkable literary voice” whose poetry and writings demonstrated a deep appreciation for Yoruba culture, tradition, history, language and the broader human experience.

The family expressed gratitude to individuals, institutions, traditional leaders and members of the literary community who had contacted them to offer condolences and support following the death.

They also appealed for privacy and prayers as they mourned the veteran performer and cultural custodian.

The family said details of the funeral arrangements would be announced at a later date.

Born in Saki, Oyo State, Ogundepo established himself as one of the respected voices in Yoruba oral literature, combining acting, poetry and cultural expression throughout his career.

He became particularly recognised for his exceptional command of Ijala, the traditional poetry and chant associated with Yoruba hunters.

Ijala is an important form of Yoruba oral tradition through which performers recount histories, praise individuals, celebrate nature and animals, and express the values, experiences and worldview of the community.

Ogundepo’s mastery of the art helped expose wider audiences to the richness of Yoruba indigenous poetry and contributed to efforts to preserve an important aspect of the culture’s oral heritage.

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His contribution, however, extended beyond Ijala performance. Through his writings, acting and cultural activities, he helped document and promote aspects of Yoruba indigenous knowledge and oral tradition for younger generations.

Over the years, Ogundepo earned recognition as a respected Yoruba cultural figure, using his artistic work to promote the Yoruba language and preserve traditional forms of expression at a time when indigenous oral traditions face increasing pressure from changing cultural and social influences.

As an actor, he also became part of the long tradition of performers who helped bring Yoruba stories, characters, customs and values to wider audiences through theatre and film.

Those who knew him also remembered him for his wisdom, dignity, compassion and willingness to mentor younger people interested in Yoruba literature and cultural expression.

His influence therefore extended beyond his performances, with his counsel, friendship and commitment to cultural preservation touching the lives of artists, writers, scholars and members of his community.

The death of the 84-year-old Yoruba actor and Ijala master represents a significant loss to Nigeria’s indigenous cultural and literary community.

His passing comes with renewed attention to the importance of preserving Yoruba oral literature, particularly traditional art forms such as Ijala that carry generations of history, knowledge and cultural identity.

Through his performances, writings and mentorship, Ogundepo left behind a body of work that is expected to continue inspiring artists, writers, cultural researchers and younger practitioners.

For many admirers of Yoruba traditional poetry, his legacy will remain closely associated with his distinctive contribution to Ijala and his lifelong commitment to keeping indigenous culture alive.

The family has asked the public to respect its privacy during the mourning period and said further information about his burial will be made available in due course.

Veteran Yoruba actor, Ijala master Alabi Ogundepo dies at 84