Lagos Councillor, Oluwakemi Rufai, Dies Two Weeks After Swearing-In

Oluwakemi Rufai, the newly sworn-in councillor representing Ward C1 in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State, has died just two weeks after taking her oath of office.

Rufai, the only female member of the Ibeju-Lekki legislative council, reportedly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday following a brief illness.

Her death was confirmed in separate statements by the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LG, Sesan Olowa, and the Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area, Rasaki Kasali. Both described her passing as a profound shock to the council and the community she represented.

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) also expressed its sorrow over the loss. Party spokesman, Seye Oladejo, described Rufai as a “rising star within the APC” who embodied “commitment, grassroots service, and gender inclusion.”

“Her short time in office reflected her dedication to community development and loyalty to the party’s ideals,” Oladejo stated, extending condolences to Rufai’s family, the Ibeju-Lekki community, and her constituents.

“Her legacy of service, courage, and vision will not be forgotten,” he added.

Rufai’s death marks a significant loss not only to her local government but also to the growing efforts toward increased female representation in grassroots politics.