The Lagos Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is mourning the loss of a prominent leader, Ramota Bankole, who tragically passed away after completing her Hajj rites in Saudi Arabia.
Bankole, a former Welfare Secretary of Lagos APC, was among the pilgrims who succumbed to the extreme heat in the holy land. The intense temperatures have taken a severe toll on pilgrims, with reports indicating the death toll from the annual rituals, performed in scorching conditions, has exceeded 900.
The confirmation of her death came on Thursday from the council chairmen of Epe Local Government, Eredo, and Ikosi-Ejirin Local Council Development Area (LCDA). This news arrives amid ongoing searches by friends and family for missing pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
Bankole, who had recently celebrated her 60th birthday, was remembered by her colleagues as a pivotal figure within the party. The Chairman of Epe Local Government, Surah Animashaun, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing Bankole’s vibrant health before her departure for the pilgrimage.
“It’s with a heavy heart and a deep sense of grief that I received the news of Alhaja Ramota Bankole’s death,” Animashaun stated. “It is a sad day indeed as I received the news that she died in the holy land of Mecca while on a holy pilgrimage. I extend my condolences to the Bankole family, APC members, and the entire people of Epe on the unfortunate demise of our dear sister and mother.”
The APC community and residents of Epe are grappling with the sudden loss of a beloved leader and are extending their support and condolences to Bankole’s family during this difficult time.