Four female elected officials in Lagos have died within two months of assuming office, sparking grief and questions from residents.
Lagos State has been thrown into mourning following the deaths of four female elected officials barely two months after taking office.
The latest were Basirat Mayabikan, who died on September 21, 56 days into her tenure, and Oluremi Ajose, who passed away on September 20, 55 days after inauguration. Their deaths came weeks after those of Zainab Shotayo on August 18 and Oluwakemi Rufai on August 13.
While two were linked to brief illnesses, the circumstances have raised concerns among residents. “It has nothing to do with any kind of politics. This is a surprise,” Lagos APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo said, urging the public to resist speculation.
Council leaders and colleagues paid tribute, describing the officials as rare voices for women in grassroots governance. Observers note that the losses mark a setback for women’s representation in Lagos politics, leaving many communities without female voices in their local councils.