Four newly elected female council officials in Lagos State, all members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have passed away within two months of their inauguration, raising concerns among residents.
The deceased are:
– Oluwakemi Rufai, councillor for Ward C1 in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, died on 13 August after a brief illness. She was the only female voice in her council.
– Zainab Shotayo, councillor for Ward C3 in Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, died on 18 August at age 30, also after a brief illness. She was the youngest and only female councillor in her council.
– Oluremi Ajose, Vice Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, died suddenly on 20 September. No official cause of death has been disclosed.
– Basirat Mayabikan, councillor for Ward F in Shomolu Local Government, died on 21 September, with no public confirmation of the cause.
Cause of Deaths and Public Reaction
The deaths of Ms Rufai and Ms Shotayo were attributed to brief illnesses, but no specific details have been provided for Ms Ajose or Ms Mayabikan. The rapid succession of these losses has sparked public unease, with some residents questioning the vague explanation of “brief illness.” On platforms like Nairaland, users have called the circumstances suspicious and demanded more transparency.
Foul Play Concerns Dismissed
Lagos APC spokesperson Oluseye Oladejo rejected claims of foul play or political hostility toward women, calling such suggestions disrespectful to the deceased. “These officials were from different local governments and council areas, so it’s not linked to any internal crisis,” Oladejo told TheCable. He urged the public to respect the families’ grief and refrain from speculation, stating there is “nothing to investigate.”
The deaths have left communities mourning and seeking answers, as the loss of these four women in such a short period continues to raise questions.
