Lagos State is in mourning following the deaths of four female elected officials barely two months after they were sworn into office.
The deceased include Basirat Mayabikan, who died on September 21, just 56 days after inauguration, and Oluremi Ajose, who passed away on September 20, 55 days into her tenure.
Their deaths came a month after the passing of Zainab Shotayo on August 18, 22 days after taking office, and Oluwakemi Rufai, who died on August 13, barely 17 days after inauguration.
The causes of death remain unclear, leaving colleagues and constituents devastated. Many Lagos residents have raised concerns, calling for more clarity from authorities.
The losses began on August 13, when Ms Rufai, a councillor representing Ward C1 in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, died after a brief illness.
She was the only female voice in the legislative council of her community. Just five days later, Ms Shotayo, councillor for Ward C3 in Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, died on August 18 after a brief illness.
Tragedy struck again on September 20 when Ms Ajose, Vice Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, died suddenly, with no official cause of death publicly disclosed.
Barely 24 hours later, Ms Mayabikan, councillor for Ward F in Shomolu Local Government, also died, with circumstances not publicly confirmed.
Questions have surfaced about the circumstances surrounding these deaths, with some residents finding it unusual.
On discussion forums like Nairaland, users expressed doubt over the explanation of “brief illness,” especially in Ms Shotayo’s case, who was just 30 years old. Some described the sequence of events as suspicious, pressing for clearer information.
However, Lagos APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo dismissed suggestions of political hostility toward women, urging the public to resist speculation and misinformation.
He emphasized the party’s commitment to gender inclusion, citing a deliberate policy to allot a sizable number of seats to women at all levels.
Tributes have poured in from council chairmen and local government leaders. Sesan Olowa and Rasaki Kasali described Ms Rufai’s death as a rude shock, while Somolu Local Government Chairman Lateef Ashimi paid tribute to Ms Mayabikan, describing her as humble and friendly.
Mr Usman Hamzat, Chairman of Ifako-Ijaiye LG, conveyed condolences to the people of Badagry-West and Somolu, describing the twin tragedies as shocking.
