Dr Oluwatoyin Alabi Mourns Former Iyaloja of Igbaja, Alao
By Abdulsalam Ibrahim Lahdan
Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi has expressed profound grief over the death of Alhaja Asiawu Abegbe Alao, the former Iyaloja of Igbaja, describing her passing as the close of a significant chapter in the commercial and social history of the ancient town.
Alhaja Alao, a respected wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, died on Friday, 9 January 2026, at the age of 100.
She was a member of the Alagbede Family of Alagbede Compound, Igbaja, in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
In a condolence message made available to the press, Dr. Alabi commiserated with His Royal Majesty, the Elese of Igbaja, the Alagbede family, and the entire Igbaja community over what he described as an irreparable loss.
According to him, the late Iyaloja was not only an outstanding market leader but also a symbol of dignity, resilience, and selfless service to the community.
“Mama lived a fulfilled life characterised by integrity, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Igbaja.
During her tenure as Iyaloja, she played a pivotal role in strengthening commerce, unity, and peaceful coexistence among traders and residents,” Dr. Alabi stated.
He noted that attaining the age of 100 is a rare divine blessing and a testament to a life devoted to service to humanity, adding that her legacy of leadership and community dedication would continue to inspire future generations.
Dr. Alabi prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy upon the soul of the deceased and asked Almighty Allah to grant the Elese of Igbaja, the bereaved family, and the entire people of Igbaja the fortitude to bear the loss.
