Lagos State Mourns Loss Of Four Female Politicians

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Lagos political landscape is shrouded in mourning following the deaths of four female politicians from the All Progressives Congress (APC) within a short span.

The most recent losses include Councillor Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan, representing Ward F in Somolu Local Government, who passed away on September 21, 2025, and Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose, Vice Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), who died on September 20, 2025.

*The Deceased Officials:*

– *Oluwakemi Rufai*, Councillor, Ward C, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Council, died on August 13, 2025, after a brief illness, just 17 days into her tenure.
– *Zainab Shotayo*, Councillor and Chief Whip, Ward C, Odiolowo-Ojuwoye LCDA, passed away on August 18, 2025, following a brief illness, 22 days after inauguration.
– *Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose*, Vice Chairman, Badagry West LCDA, died on September 20, 2025, 55 days after taking office.
– *Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan*, Councillor, Ward F, Somolu Local Government, died on September 21, 2025, 56 days after inauguration.

The Somolu 10th Legislative Council paid tribute to Councillor Mayabikan, describing her as “a courageous lawmaker, a voice of the people, and a shining example of selfless service.” Her passion for grassroots development and compassion for her constituents will be deeply missed.

The APC has dismissed speculation about the deaths being politically motivated, with party spokesperson Seye Oladejo emphasizing the party’s commitment to promoting women’s participation in governance. The party has prioritized the election of women to political offices across Lagos State.

These tragic losses have sparked widespread grief and raised concerns about the party’s repeated losses of women leaders at the grassroots level. As the Lagos community mourns, there are calls for thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding these deaths.