LAGOS – The political landscape in Lagos State has been plunged into a state of shock and mourning following the sudden deaths of two elected local government officials within hours of each other, marking a tragic series of losses that have now claimed the lives of three female councillors in less than two months.
The most recent death is that of Hon. Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan, the Councillor representing Ward F (Bajulaiye-Folagoro) in Shomolu Local Government. Her passing was confirmed in the early hours of Sunday, September 21, 2025.
Her death came barely hours after the Vice Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose, was also reported dead. Princess Ajose had been sworn into office less than two months ago.
The Executive Chairman of Shomolu Local Government, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, announced Councillor Mayabikan’s death in a formal condolence message, describing her as “a humble, cheerful, friendly, and easy-going representative whose death was sudden and shocking.”
“This tragic news has sent shockwaves through our community, as it was never expected or foreseen,” Ashimi wrote.
Hon. Mayabikan is the third female councillor to die in recent weeks. On August 13, 2025, Hon. Oluwakemi Rufai of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government died just two weeks after her swearing-in. Six days later, Hon. Zainab Kosoko Shotayo of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA passed away after a brief illness.
The earlier passing of Princess Ajose was met with profound grief in the Badagry community. In an official statement, the Badagry West LCDA described her death as a “great loss.”
“Princess Nutayi, who assumed office less than two months ago, answered the call of her Creator at a time her wealth of experience, dedication, and passion for service were most needed,” the council’s statement read.
Princess Ajose, a daughter of the Alapa of Apa Egun Awori Kingdom, had previously served as the Supervisor for Education before her election to the vice chairman’s office.
As investigations into the causes of these sudden deaths continue, condolences have poured in from across the state for the families, colleagues, and constituents of the departed public servants. The consecutive tragedies have left a significant vacuum in local governance and a community seeking answers.
