By Ademuyiwa Balikis
Grief has enveloped the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area following the sudden death of Hon. Sabiu Oluwakemi Rufai, councillor representing Ward C1 and the only female member of the 10th Legislative Council, just two weeks after she assumed office.
Rufai, who was sworn in on July 28, 2025, passed away after a brief illness, according to confirmation from Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, and Hon. Rasaki Kasali, Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
Her inauguration had been part of a larger swearing-in ceremony that also marked the beginning of a second term for Chairman Olowa. The event, attended by political leaders including Hon. Bayo Balogun, Member of the House of Representatives for Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency, saw Rufai pledge her commitment to grassroots development and effective representation for Ward C1.
The councillor’s sudden death has left colleagues and residents deeply shocked. She was widely seen as a rising political figure and a dedicated advocate for her community.
Her passing leaves Ward C1 without representation, and the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) is expected to announce steps for filling the vacant seat, possibly through a by-election.
