Shock as newly sworn-in Lagos Councillor passes away shortly after oath of office

Oluwakemi Rufai, the only female councillor in the legislative council of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Lagos State, has passed away just two weeks after being sworn into office.

Oluwakemi, who represented Ward C1, reportedly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, August 13, 2025, following a brief illness.

The Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, Sesan Olowa, and the Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Rasaki Kasali, confirmed her death in separate statements, describing it as a devastating loss to both the council and the community.

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) also expressed grief over her passing.

In a condolence statement, APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo described Oluwakemi as a “rising star within the party” who was committed to grassroots service and gender inclusion.

Oladejo stated that despite her short time in office, Oluwakemi demonstrated dedication to community development and loyalty to the APC’s values.

He extended sympathies to her family, constituents, and the Ibeju-Lekki community, stating that her “legacy of service, courage, and vision will not be forgotten.”