Tragedy in Lagos Politics: Four Newly Elected Female Officials Die Within Two Months of Inauguration

Mystery surrounds sudden deaths of four Lagos female lawmakers within weeks of taking office, raising fresh concerns about women’s representation, health, and Nigeria’s turbulent political climate

In what has become a disturbing trend in Lagos State politics, four female elected officials who were sworn into office on July 10, 2025, have all died within a span of just two months after their inauguration.

The officials, celebrated for breaking barriers in Nigeria’s male-dominated political scene, reportedly died under different circumstances between mid-August and late September.

Oluwakemi Rufai – died on August 13, just 17 days after being inaugurated.

Zainab Shotayo – passed away on August 18, 22 days after inauguration.

Oluremi Ajose – died on September 20, 55 days after inauguration.

Basirat Mayabikan – the latest casualty, died on September 21, 56 days after inauguration.

All four were representing various constituencies in Lagos State. Their deaths, so closely clustered, have sparked widespread shock and speculation.

A Blow to Women Representation in Politics: The tragic loss of four female lawmakers in such a short period represents not just a personal tragedy for their families, but also a political setback for women’s representation in Nigeria.

Nigeria already ranks low in female political participation compared to other African countries. In the 2023 general elections, only about 7% of National Assembly seats were won by women, despite women making up nearly half of the voting population.

Observers say the unexpected deaths of these lawmakers may discourage young women aspiring to join politics, a field already riddled with intimidation, health risks, and extreme pressure.

While official causes of death remain largely undisclosed, political analysts point to stress, inadequate healthcare access, and the grueling demands of political office as potential contributing factors. Nigerian politicians often face immense pressure from constituents, political godfathers, and party expectations, leading to mental and physical strain.

Civil society groups are now calling for an investigation to determine whether the deaths were coincidental or if there were deeper systemic issues at play.

Nigeria’s political environment has long been associated with controversies, ranging from electoral violence and corruption scandals to sudden deaths of serving officials. Over the last two decades, the country has witnessed several high-profile political deaths that stirred speculation and conspiracy theories.

In Lagos State—Nigeria’s economic hub and the stronghold of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—political competition is particularly intense. Internal party battles, campaign stress, and the heavy burden of public expectations have often taken a toll on public servants.

The multiple deaths have triggered a wave of reactions across social media and the political sphere. Many Nigerians have expressed shock, sorrow, and concern about the rising number of sudden deaths in public office.

Women advocacy groups have demanded a thorough investigation, emphasizing the need to protect female politicians from undue stress and possible foul play.

Opposition voices are also questioning whether structural health checks for elected officials are adequate.

Religious leaders have called for prayers, describing the deaths as a “spiritual attack on women in leadership”

The Lagos State House of Assembly now faces the task of declaring the seats vacant and conducting fresh by-elections to fill the positions. Political analysts suggest this will once again test Nigeria’s electoral process, given the logistical, financial, and security challenges that accompany every election cycle.

For many Nigerians, the bigger question remains: Why did four women, all sworn in on the same day, die within weeks of each other? Until credible investigations are carried out, the deaths will remain shrouded in mystery.

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