By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Lagos political space has once again been thrown into mourning as Hon. Mayabikan Kemi Basirat, Councillor representing Ward F in Somolu Local Government, has died.
Her death, announced on Sunday by the Somolu 10th Legislative Council, comes barely weeks after the All Progressives Congress (APC) lost two other female councillors including Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose, Vice Chairman of Badagry West LCDA.
In a statement signed by the Leader of the Somolu 10th Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Oyeyiola Tunde James, the late Basirat was described as “a courageous lawmaker, a voice of the people, and a shining example of selfless service.”
“Her passion for grassroots development, her unwavering courage in leadership, and her compassion for the people she represented will forever be remembered,” the Council noted.
The sudden deaths of three female politicians within a short span have sparked grief across the Lagos APC family, raising concerns among supporters about the party’s repeated losses of women leaders at the grassroots.
Princess Ajose, daughter of the Alapa of Apa Egun-Awori Kingdom, died in September just two months after assuming office as Vice Chairman of Badagry West LCDA.
Her death followed that of another female councillor earlier in the year, deepening the sense of loss among party faithful.
For Somolu residents, Basirat’s passing is particularly painful. Community members described her as a “committed voice for the people” whose work in grassroots development touched many lives.
The Somolu 10th Legislative Council has extended condolences to her family, friends, and constituents, pledging to honour her legacy of service and dedication.
Her death further underscores the emotional toll on the Lagos APC, as it grapples with the back-to-back loss of vibrant women leaders who played key roles in strengthening governance at the local council level.
