How Ikorodu Lost Two Grassroots Political Icons Within
By Emmanuel Daniji
Ikorodu was plunged into deep mourning as it lost two of its most recognisable grassroots political figures—Hon. Kazeem Abayomi Oni-Orisan, popularly known as Kalokalo, and Alhaja Kudirat Owolabi, fondly called C-Cash—within a heartbreaking span of 24 hours.
Both politicians, prominent members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikorodu and widely admired for their grassroots influence, were in their 50s. Their near-simultaneous deaths sent shockwaves across political circles, party structures, and neighbourhoods where they were known not just as politicians, but as dependable community mobilisers.
Hon. Oni-Orisan, a former Councillor in Ikorodu Local Government and a leader in the Celestial Church of God (CCC), died in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital. Barely a day later, on Wednesday, news broke of the death of Alhaja Kudirat Owolabi, a former Deputy Executive Secretary of Ikorodu Local Government, who passed away at her Gbagada residence after a prolonged illness.
The timing of their deaths—so close and unexpected—deepened the grief and disbelief felt across Ikorodu.
Arrangements announced by their families show the community preparing for two emotional farewells. The wake-keep for Hon. Oni-Orisan held on Thursday, February 4, 2026, while the burial followed on Friday. Alhaja Owolabi, in keeping with Islamic tradition, was buried on Thursday.
Tributes have continued to pour in from party members, associates, and residents who described both deaths as untimely and devastating.
A grassroots politician known as D Prof captured the mood of disbelief shared by many:
“I don’t understand this kind of death that can just take two vibrant political members within 24 hours. Life is truly mysterious. God have mercy on us.”
Political platform Kolujo Group, led by former Ikorodu Local Government chairmanship aspirant Comrade Japhet Odesanya, described Kalokalo as a loyal and committed comrade whose dedication would not be forgotten.
Former Ikorodu North LCDA chairmanship aspirant, Dr (Hon.) Samson Bisiriyu, said the news of Kalokalo’s death came as a rude shock, describing him as a humble brother and motivator.
Similar emotions followed the announcement of C-Cash’s passing. Chief Lookman Alade Awomodu, a traditional Baale who helped break the news, expressed sorrow while submitting to the will of Allah. Political associates, including Hon. Olasunkanmi Oshinowo, described her death as a major blow to the political family she belonged to.
Grassroots mobiliser Adeleke Fasanya, reacting to the closeness of both deaths, summed up the pain many felt with the words: “Iku seeka. Iku doro.” (Death is wicked. Death is cruel.)
Within 24 hours, Ikorodu lost two figures whose names were synonymous with grassroots politics, loyalty, and community engagement. As the town prepares to lay them to rest, residents are left reflecting on the fragility of life—and the enduring impact of leaders who gave their time and energy to the people they served.
