Mushin Mourns Baba Alado, Community Mediator and Political Power Broker.
Mushin Mourns Baba Alado, Community Mediator and Political Power Broker.
Chief Taoreed Faronbi, known as Baba Alado, a prominent figure in Mushin’s political, traditional, transport and social life, has died aged 83.
Faronbi died in the early hours of Saturday, September 26, 2026, after battling illness for several years. He was buried later that day at his residence in Isheri-Oshun, in accordance with Islamic rites.
His younger brother, Chief Tajudeen Faronbi, the Baale of Oke Mushin, confirmed his death. He said the family could not specify the cause, leaving that to the doctors, but noted that his brother had been unwell for years.
Tajudeen described Faronbi as helpful and accommodating, though strong-willed and intolerant of disrespect. He said Faronbi had assisted many people, including by building houses for some. He also maintained that, since entering the land business in 1976, his brother had never sold one plot to two buyers.
Born into a family from Isolo, Faronbi attended Islamic Model School in Mushin and learnt carpentry as a young man. He later became the fifth Olori Ebi, or head, of the Alagbeji Royal Family in Papa Ajao, taking the position in 2015. He also held traditional and commercial titles, including Akinrogun of Isolo and Babaloja of Aswani International Market.
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Faronbi was widely regarded as a grassroots political organiser and power broker. Some compared his influence in Mushin to that of late Ibadan politician Lamidi Adedibu. He was also a prominent figure in the National Union of Road Transport Workers, and his loyalists were known as “Alado boys.”
Tributes came from political, traditional and transport leaders. NURTW President Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, said Faronbi’s contributions to the transport and community sectors would be remembered. Mushin Local Government Chairman Tunbosun Aruwe called him a father figure and mentor, while community leaders recalled his role in mediating disputes and preventing conflict.
Close associate Rasheed Bakare said Faronbi had suffered a partial stroke, eye problems and other age-related conditions. He described him as influential, widely respected and a kingmaker in Mushin politics.
Faronbi’s public life also drew controversy. He denied allegations linking him to violent incidents, including a 2020 attack in Isheri-Osun and claims that he sponsored attacks on #EndSARS protesters. Federal prosecutors charged him and six others over the 2020 incident; he denied involvement.
A familiar presence at social events, Faronbi was also mentioned in songs by Fuji musicians, including K1 De Ultimate, Saheed Osupa and Alabi Pasuma. His death ends a life marked by influence, disputes and community service.
