Oluwakemi Rufai, a newly sworn-in councillor representing Ward C1 in the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State, died just two weeks after taking her oath of office.
The councillor, who was the lone woman on the legislative council, reportedly died early Wednesday morning after a brief illness.
Rasaki Kasali, Chairman of the Lekki Local Council Development Area, and Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LG, confirmed her death.
In separate remarks on Wednesday, they called her death a devastating blow to the council and the community she represented.
Seye Oladejo, the spokesman for the Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, expressed deep regret over her demise.
Oladejo praised Rufai as a “rising star within the APC” who personified “commitment, grassroots service, and gender inclusion,” noting that her brief tenure in government highlighted her commitment to community development and allegiance to the party’s principles.
He sent his condolences to Rufai’s family, the Ibeju-Lekki community, and her constituency, stating that “her legacy of service, courage, and vision will not be forgotten.”
