Lagos Councillor Oluwakemi Rufai Dies Two Weeks After Swearing-In: APC, Community Mourn
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Lagos Councillor Oluwakemi Rufai Dies Two Weeks After Swearing-In |
The political landscape of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area in Lagos State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of Councillor Oluwakemi Rufai, who represented Ward C1. Rufai, the only female voice in the legislative council, passed away just two weeks after her swearing-in.
According to official statements from Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LG, and Rasaki Kasali, Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area, Rufai died in the early hours of Wednesday after a brief illness. Both leaders described her passing as a devastating loss to the council and the community she served diligently.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos Chapter, through its spokesperson Seye Oladejo, expressed deep sorrow, describing Rufai as a “rising star within the APC” who championed grassroots development, gender inclusion, and community service. Oladejo added that Rufai’s commitment, though brief, reflected loyalty to party ideals and unwavering dedication to her constituents.
Condolences have poured in from across the state, with community leaders affirming that her legacy of service, courage, and vision will continue to inspire future leaders.
For more details on political developments in Lagos State, visit the official Lagos State Government website.
NAAT Rejects FG’s Education Loan, Demands Immediate Payment of Arrears
In another development within Nigeria’s education sector, the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has firmly rejected the Federal Government’s Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF) loan scheme, labelling it a distraction from unresolved salary arrears and allowances.
Speaking through its National President, Ibeji Nwokoma, the union emphasised that its members “do not need a loan that will perpetually enslave them”, especially when NAAT cooperative societies already cater to short-term financial needs.
Key Demands from NAAT
NAAT is calling on the Federal Government to settle outstanding entitlements, which include:
- 3.5 months of withheld salaries
- 7 months arrears of Occupational Hazard Allowance
- Release of third-party deductions from the 2 months of withheld salaries already paid
- 11 months arrears of Responsibility Allowance
- 12 months arrears of 25% and 35% salary increases
- 4 months wage award arrears
- Payment of arrears of the ₦30,000 Minimum Wage (implemented in 2019) to omitted members
- Release of supplementary funds for outstanding Earned Allowances
University of Abuja Land Revocation Dispute
NAAT also condemned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory over the alleged revocation of the University of Abuja’s land. The union described the move as “unilateral and arbitrary”, warning that such an action violates existing laws, which can only be amended by the National Assembly.
According to NAAT, the revoked land is crucial for the university’s master plan, including future research centres, academic programs, student housing, and population growth. Limiting the university to only 4,000 hectares, they argue, will significantly hinder expansion plans.
The union has urged the National Assembly committees on Tertiary Education and TETFund to intervene, calling on the Minister to reverse the decision in the interest of national development.
For official updates on higher education policies, you can visit the Federal Ministry of Education website.
Conclusion
The death of Councillor Oluwakemi Rufai and the brewing tensions between NAAT and the Federal Government highlight the pressing need for stronger governance, better welfare for public servants, and transparent policy-making in Nigeria. While Lagos mourns the loss of a promising grassroots leader, the education sector continues to push for reforms and the settlement of long-standing financial obligations.
Both stories serve as reminders that public trust is built not just on political representation, but also on the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
