Hajj 2024: APC loses Lagos woman leader in Saudi Arabia

Ibrahim Quadri

A leader in the Lagos Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ramota Bankole, has been pronounced dead after performing her Hajj rites in Saudi Arabia.

Bankole, who was Lagos APC former Welfare Secretary, was said to be among the pilgrims that dropped dead following excessive heat recorded in the holy land.

Her death was confirmed on Thursday by Epe Local Government Chairman, Surah Animashaun amid ongoing search by friends and family members for missing hajj pilgrims in Saudi after death toll at the annual rituals, which were carried out in scorching heat.

The chairmen described the demise of Bankole who celebrated her 60th birthday last month, as a rude shock to them, considering her role within the party.

The Chairman Epe Local Government, Animashaun, in her statement, added that the deceased was hale and hearty before leaving the country for pilgrimage.

According to the statement, “It’s with a heavy heart, and a deep sense of grief that I received the news of the death of Alhaja Ramota Bankole.

“It is a sad day indeed as I received the news that she died in the holy land of Mecca while on holy pilgrim.

“I extend my condolences to the Bankole family, APC member and entire people of Epe on the unfortunate demise of our dear Sister and Mummy.”