How Lagos elected ladies died in quick succession

By Isa Isawade

Curiosity of political watchers has been raised to high heaven by the somewhat strange event of deaths in quick succession of four female elected public office holders in Lagos. All deaths occur within five weeks, and in just 56 days after the deceased’s inauguration.

First was Oluwakemi Rufai who died on August 13, 2025, seventeen days after her inauguration as the councillor representing Ward C1 in the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State. Rufai who was described by Lagos State APC spokesman, Seye Oladejo, as a rising star within the party “who embodied commitment, grassroots service, and gender inclusion,” was the only woman in the legislative council. She reportedly died during a brief illness.

Five days after Rufai’s unfortunate demise, calamity befell the Lagos political circle again when on the 18th of August, Zainab Adesewa Shotayo, the councilor representing Ward C3, Odi Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA) suddenly died at age 30. Her death, also during a ‘brief illness’ came 22 days after her inauguration.

Shotayo, the youngest member and Chief Whip of the legislative council, was described by Chairman of the council, Seyi Jakande as having left behind a legacy of dedication and service to the community.

On 20 September, 55 days after inauguration, Princess Oluremi Ajose, Vice Chairman of Badagry West LCDA also died. Ajose whose brief tenure was marked by outreach and grassroots development initiatives, was the daughter of Alapa of Apa Egun-Awori Kingdom. She was regarded as highly respected both in political and traditional circles in Lagos State.

Lagosians were still in shock of these troubling and seemingly incessant deaths of the elected ladies when the following day, September 21st, another councillor (representing Ward F in Shomolu Local Government), Basirat Mayabikan also died. Cause of death unknown.

This strange trend of deaths in quick succession of the women folk among elected politicians in Lagos is generating ripples and serious concerns among the public.

Some observers have concluded that perhaps the campaign processes and election activities in the state are too rigorous for women, others have introduced conspiracy theory to the unfortunate events while some have become superstitious in their views.

Whatever be the case, Lagos State Government should, as a matter of urgency, thoroughly investigate the deaths of these promising young ladies in order to unravel the mystery behind the incidents with a view to forestalling further occurrence.