Mushin political and traditional figure Baba Alado dies at 83
Chief Taoreed Faronbi, popularly known as Baba Alado, has died at 83, ending a long career spanning Mushin politics, traditional affairs, transport and social life. He was buried according to Islamic rites on Saturday. His public profile was accompanied by repeated allegations over violence, which he consistently denied.
Chief Taoreed Faronbi, popularly known as Baba Alado, a prominent figure in Mushin’s political, traditional, commercial and social circles, has died at the age of 83. He died in the early hours of Saturday and was buried according to Islamic rites later that day. Faronbi was the fifth Olori Ebi, or head, of the Alagbeji Royal Family in Papa Ajao, Mushin.
He assumed the position in November 2015 after the death of Alhaji Chief Taiwo Shittu Apena. His selection was reportedly agreed by the four families that make up the royal family. He was also a prominent figure in Lagos grassroots politics and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress.
He was regarded as a mobiliser and power broker whose influence extended across Mushin and other areas. The current Mushin Local Government chairman, Tunbosun Aruwe, described him as a father figure, mentor, leader and political stalwart. Faronbi was widely regarded as an influential patron within the National Union of Road Transport Workers, especially around Mushin.
He was also the Babaloja, or market leader, of Aswani International Market. Some local political and street circles compared him with the late Ibadan political godfather Lamidi Adedibu, calling him the “Adedibu of Mushin”. His social profile was equally prominent.
His name featured in songs by Fuji musicians including K1 De Ultimate, Saheed Osupa and Alabi Pasuma, and he was known for attending events with large entourages. NURTW president Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, and other transport stakeholders mourned his death. Faronbi’s career also attracted controversy.
He was charged in 2020, alongside six co-defendants, over alleged conspiracy and terrorism-related offences connected with a violent boundary dispute in Isheri-Osun. The allegations included two deaths and property damage. He denied involvement in specific violent incidents, including allegations linked to the OPC, NURTW-related clashes and attacks during the #EndSARS protests.
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