Uncertainty Looms in Lagos Politics Following Deaths of Four Female Leaders
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the political atmosphere in Lagos State has been thrown into mourning and speculation following the deaths of four female elected officers within just two months of their inauguration.
OTN News further reports that the officials, who were sworn in on July 27, 2025, as council chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors across the state, all passed away under different circumstances between mid-August and Septemmber.
The death roll include:
1. Oluwakemi Rufai, Councillor, Ward C, Ibeju-Lekki — died on August 13, 2025, just 17 days after inauguration, reportedly following a brief illness. She was the only woman in the legislative council.
2. Zainab Shotayo, Councillor and Chief Whip, Ward C, Odiolowo-Ojuwoye LCDA — died on August 18, 2025, barely 22 days after inauguration. Shotayo, also the only female councillor in her LCDA, passed away after a short illness.
3. Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose, Vice Chairman, Badagry West LCDA — died on September 20, 2025, 55 days after inauguration. She was the daughter of Oba Oyekan Possi Ajose, the Alapa of Apa Egun-Awori Kingdom.
4. Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan, Councillor, Ward F, Shomolu — died on September 21, 2025, just a day after Ajose’s death and 56 days after inauguration.
The string of deaths, all involving female politicians, has triggered concerns and speculation among residents and observers, with some questioning whether the incidents were coincidental.
However, the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed suggestions of political undertones. Party spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, described such insinuations as “unfounded and insensitive,” urging the public to avoid spreading misinformation.
Oladejo stressed that the APC has consistently prioritized women’s inclusion in politics and continues to promote their active participation at all levels.
Despite the clarification, the unusual pattern of deaths has continued to stir conversations across Lagos, with calls for transparency and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding each case.
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