Tragedy has struck the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State as at least four female elected officials from various local government councils have died within two months of their election and inauguration. The string of deaths has raised concerns among political observers, constituents, and the general public, highlighting the unexpected and heartbreaking nature of the losses within the party ranks.
The deceased officials were all members of the ruling APC, which had recently secured sweeping victories across the state. On July 12, 2025, the party was declared winner of all 20 LG chairmanship positions as well as 37 local council development area chairmanship polls conducted a day earlier. The election results had initially been celebrated as a major political success for the APC in Lagos State, showcasing the party’s dominance and organizational strength.
The officials who passed away in quick succession include Mrs. Basirat Mayabikan, councillor for Ward F in Shomolu LGA; Oluremi Ajose, vice-chairman of Badagry West LCDA; Zainab Shotayo, councillor for Ward C3 in Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA; and Oluwakemi Rufai, councillor representing Ward C1 in Ibeju-Lekki LG. Their deaths have shocked residents and fellow politicians alike, leaving a void in local governance and representation, particularly for female voices within the councils.
Mayabikan passed away on September 21, just 56 days after assuming office, while Ajose died a day earlier on September 20. These two deaths followed those of Shotayo, who passed on August 18, and Rufai, who died on August 13, only 17 days after her swearing-in. Both Shotayo and Rufai were notably the sole female members in their respective councils, amplifying the impact of their deaths on local representation and highlighting the gender imbalance in some local governance structures.
Reports indicate that Mrs. Rufai died after a brief illness, while Shotayo, one of the youngest councillors in Lagos, also succumbed following a short period of illness. Meanwhile, the causes of death for Ajose, daughter of Oyekan Possi Ajose, the Alapa of Apa Egun-Awori Kingdom, and Mayabikan have not been publicly disclosed, leaving room for speculation but no confirmed evidence of foul play at this stage.
Lagos State APC Responds to Death Reports
Oluseye Oladejo, the Spokesman for Lagos State APC, addressed the situation on Monday, describing the string of deaths as unfortunate while cautioning against insinuations of foul play. Oladejo emphasized that speculation regarding the deaths would be disrespectful to the memories of the deceased officials and their grieving families.
He further stated: “As much as the situation is most unfortunate, it smacks of disrespect to the memories of the departed to insinuate anything untoward. All of them happen to be from different local governments and local council development areas, so it can’t be pinned down to any internal crisis. We should allow the families, friends, party and well-wishers to mourn them in peace. There’s absolutely nothing to investigate.”
Oladejo’s comments aim to provide reassurance to the public that the party views the deaths as isolated incidents and not indicative of a broader issue within the APC or the state’s local governance. The party has urged citizens to respect the privacy of the families affected and to allow official mourning processes to take place without interference or speculation. Meanwhile, colleagues and political associates of the deceased continue to express condolences and call for prayers and support for the grieving families.