March 07, (THEWILL) – Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, on Friday, mourned the death of Doyin Okupe, the former campaign Director General of the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Election, Peter Obi, describing his passing as “profound personal loss”.
Abiodun said that Okupe’s death at 72 came after the transition of the traditional ruler of Iperu Remo, the town from which both hailed; the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo.
He stated this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Friday.
The governor, who described Okupe as an affable, easy-going, and principled individual, said he played a significant role in Nigeria’s resistance to military rule enduring detention and persecution under military regimes, standing firm in his convictions.
He said that although Okupe shifted political alliances as situations evolved from the National Republican Convention (NRC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Accord Party, as well as Labour Party, (LP) but never cut ties with family, friends, and associates.
Abiodun, who said that Okupe was a patriotic Nigerian statesman, said that until his death, he remained committed to members of the progressive political family. He said that the late politician was a humble person who disagreed without foul language and was already ready to accept his mistakes, as well as respect his superior.
He said, “Receiving the news of the passing of my elder brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe, has left me with a profound sense of personal loss, especially coming so soon after the transition of the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo. Without a doubt, Dr Okupe’s departure leaves a void that will not be easily filled.”
“Beyond his political and professional engagements, Dr. Okupe was an affable, easy-going, and principled individual who, despite never flaunting his credentials, played a significant role in Nigeria’s resistance to military rule. Like many other democracy advocates, he endured detention and persecution under military regimes, standing firm in his convictions.
“Although he shifted political alliances as situations evolved, aligning with the National Republican Convention (NRC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Accord Party, and the Labour Party, he never severed ties with his friends across political platforms. Even after the 2023 general election, he openly admired and aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s progressive vision.
“An accomplished politician and strategist, Dr. Okupe co-founded the Royal Cross Medical Centre and held key political positions, including National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC), Special Assistant to President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan, and Publicist for Senator Bukola Saraki and Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“Okupe was one of those rare politicians who could disagree without being disagreeable. He never used foul language, always remained respectful in discourse, and was quick to acknowledge his mistakes while bowing to superior arguments. Humility was his defining trait.”
“Although he trained as a medical doctor, Dr Okupe excelled in media and political communications, serving as a spokesperson for various administrations. His writing and public speaking skills were exceptional, making him an influential voice in national discourse. His passion for journalism even led him to establish his own media outfit, further cementing his role as a thought leader in political communication.
“Even in his later years, while battling health challenges, Dr. Okupe remained unwavering in his advocacy for a better Nigeria. Even as he faced health struggles and the frailties of age, Okupe never stopped championing the cause of national development. His voice will be deeply missed.
“Dr Doyin Okupe’s dedication to public service, political strategy, and media communication will continue to inspire future generations. His contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape remain indelible, and his legacy as a patriot, statesman, and media strategist will be cherished.
“It is my sincere prayer that Almighty God grants his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Adieu, dear brother. May your soul rest in eternal peace. Amen”, he added.
