The Story of Isiaka Busari, AKA “Mighty Joe”

The Story of Isiaka Busari, AKA “Mighty Joe” — The ‘Strongman of Idi Oro Mushin,’ Lagos

Mighty Joe, born Isiaka Busari, was infamous for his reign of terror in Lagos and parts of southwestern Nigeria during the 1960s and early 1970s. Raised by his mother, who sold Moi Moi in the Akala area of Idi-Oro, Mushin, Mighty Joe earned his nickname due to his imposing physique and intimidating presence.

He was the second-in-command to the notorious armed robber, Dr. Ishola Oyenusi, who met his end at the Bar Beach, Lagos, on September 8, 1971. Mighty Joe, however, sought to outdo his predecessor in ruthlessness and notoriety, quickly establishing himself as a feared figure in the criminal underworld.

One of his most infamous acts was the murder of a Lebanese man at Jebaco Cinema in Idi-Oro. Despite his arrest, he escaped conviction due to insufficient evidence, with witnesses intimidated into silence.

Mighty Joe’s downfall came when he robbed Michael Osayunana, a bar attendant at Right Time Hotel, Fadeyi, of £10 at gunpoint. This time, the law caught up with him, and he was sentenced to death.

While in prison, Mighty Joe converted to Islam and prayed fervently for clemency, but his execution date remained fixed. On June 6, 1973, he was tied to the stakes at the Bar Beach for his final moments.

When asked for his last words, Mighty Joe declared:
“May God bless everybody, both my friends and enemies. Tell my wife, my mother, and my in-law to keep fit.”

Mighty Joe’s life and demise remain a stark reminder of the consequences of a life of crime.