Dr. Doyin Okupe, a prominent Nigerian politician and former presidential spokesperson to ex-Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, has passed away at the age of 72. Okupe, who hailed from Iperu-Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, died in the early hours of Friday in Lagos after a prolonged illness.
The Chairman of Ikenne Local Government, Jamiu Ashimi, confirmed the news of Okupe’s demise, stating, “I just confirmed the tragic news of the passing of Dr. Doyin Okupe. May his soul rest in peace.” Chief Michael Adesanya, the Asojuoba of Isara Remo and a close friend of the late politician, also confirmed the news, saying, “Dr. Okupe has been confirmed to have died early Friday morning in Lagos.”
A Storied Political Career
Dr. Doyin Okupe was a multifaceted personality who made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape. He served as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan. His tenure in these roles was marked by his outspoken nature and ability to articulate the government’s policies and positions.
In 2022, Okupe was appointed Director-General of Peter Obi’s Presidential Campaign under the Labour Party. However, his political journey faced a setback when he was convicted of breaching sections of the Money Laundering Act. Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu found him guilty of accepting cash payments exceeding the legal threshold without going through a financial institution. Following the conviction, Okupe stepped down from his role in Obi’s campaign and later resigned from the Labour Party after the 2023 general elections.
Despite the controversies, Okupe remained active in politics, becoming a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He frequently engaged in political debates and commentary, showcasing his deep understanding of Nigeria’s political dynamics.
A Man of Many Talents
Before venturing into politics, Dr. Doyin Okupe was a successful medical doctor. He co-founded the Royal Cross Medical Centre, a testament to his commitment to healthcare and community service. His medical background often informed his approach to public service, emphasizing the importance of health and well-being in national development.
Okupe’s political career began in the early 1990s when he served as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC). He later became a governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable political figure.
Controversies and Resilience
Okupe’s political journey was not without its challenges. His conviction for money laundering in 2022 was a significant blow, but he remained resilient, continuing to contribute to national discourse and supporting causes he believed in. His ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape earned him respect from both allies and adversaries.
In his later years, Okupe became a prominent voice in Nigerian media, offering insightful analysis and commentary on political developments. His bold and unfiltered opinions made him a favorite among political enthusiasts and a respected figure in the country’s political arena.
Tributes Pour In
News of Okupe’s passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum. Many have described him as a passionate and dedicated public servant who tirelessly advocated for good governance and national development. His contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and his unwavering commitment to his principles have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
A Legacy of Service and Advocacy
Dr. Doyin Okupe’s legacy is one of service, resilience, and advocacy. Whether as a medical doctor, political spokesperson, or commentator, he consistently demonstrated a deep love for Nigeria and a desire to see the country thrive. His passing leaves a void in Nigeria’s political and social spheres, but his contributions will continue to inspire future generations.
As the nation mourns the loss of this iconic figure, his family, friends, and associates are comforted by the knowledge that Dr. Doyin Okupe lived a life of impact and purpose. May his soul rest in peace.
