Tragedy struck the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area in Lagos State as Oluwakemi Rufai, the newly sworn-in councillor for Ward C1, passed away just two weeks after assuming office.
Rufai reportedly died in the early hours of Wednesday, August 13, following a brief illness.
Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LG, and Rasaki Kasali, Chairman of the Lekki Local Council Development Area, confirmed the news of her death in separate statements on Wednesday.
Both described her sudden 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 deep sorrow over her death.
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Through its spokesman, Seye Oladejo, the party hailed Rufai as a “rising star within the APC” who embodied “commitment, grassroots service, and gender inclusion.”
He noted that even in her brief tenure, she had shown remarkable dedication to community development and loyalty to the party’s ideals.
Oladejo extended heartfelt condolences to Rufai’s family, the Ibeju-Lekki community, and her constituents, emphasising that “her legacy of service, courage, and vision will not be forgotten.”
Rufai’s passing leaves a significant void in the council and highlights the fragility of life, even for those devoted to public service.