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Tag: Doyin Okupe

  • Doyin Okupe laid to rest amidst tears

    Doyin Okupe laid to rest amidst tears

    A former presidential spokesman to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, Doyin Okupe, has been laid to rest in his hometown, Iperu-Remo in Ikenne, Ogun state.

    It would be recalled that Okupe died on March 7, 2025 at 72.

    At the funeral service held at the Wesley Methodist Church, Nigeria, Iperu-Remo on Friday, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun described the deceased as a fearless man and a warrior, who fought many battles during his lifetime.

    Abiodun noted that Okupe lived an impactful life by being generous to the people around him.

    Extolling the virtues of the astute politician, the governor said Okupe served the nation meritoriously and was an advocate of good governance.

    According to the governor, his unwavering commitment to the nation, his family and children remains a testament to his kindness to humanity.

    “People should live an impactful life. Life is a temporary place where every human being has to taste death.

    “He was a media guru, articulate, fearless spokesman, and a very reliable, dependable, principled man.

    “He will not change his viewpoint or position because anyone tried to influence him until out of conviction, or out of an inner conviction,” the governor said.

    Abiodun admonished people to be conscious of their life to be remembered for good after death.

    In his sermon, the Methodist Archbishop of Egba-Yewa, Most Rev. Adegbemi Adewale, explained that the life of Dr Okupe was full of testimonies.

    Adewale stated that the late politician impacted positivity in people’s lives during his lifetime, stating that his legacy would continue to inspire his children and generations to come.

    Reading from Revelation 21:1, the cleric emphasised the need for people to always remember that death was inevitable, saying every human had a limited time to live.

    Some of the dignitaries at the burial service were members of the Ogun State Executive Council, Senator Gbenga Daniel, Mr Bayo Onanuga and Mr Tunde Rahman.

  • What Okupe did for Tinubu’s second term bid before he died

    What Okupe did for Tinubu’s second term bid before he died

    President Bola Tinubu, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Thursday joined other Nigerians to celebrate the life and times of a former Presidential Spokesman, Dr Doyin Okupe.

    Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu and others paid tributes  to  Okupe at the  Service of Songs organised to honour him in Lagos.

    Okupe, also a  former Director-General of the Labour Party (LP), passed away on March 7, and will  be buried on Friday in Iperu, his home town  in Ogun.

    In his tribute, Tinubu, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant (Media), Mr Tunde Rahman, said the passing of Okupe was a personal loss, though they shared different political views .

    “The death of Dr Okupe is also a personal loss to the nation ,particularly to the political class, because Okupe was an erudite politician, a political strategist, and a communication expert.

    “Last  January, when Dr Okupe came to the Presidential Villa, after  meeting with the President, he said  that he needed to work fully for Mr President’s second term in 2027.

    “And as a matter of fact, he told me that he had set up an office, he had set up a team to work for Mr President in 2027. He did this because he believed Mr President is on a redemption mission.

    “He believed his policies and ideas are very timely and  that he took certain decisions to save the nation.

    “Dr Okupe is no more, but his ideas, his spirit will continue to live with us. So on behalf of Mr. President, I want to pray for eternal rest for the soul of Dr Okupe, “he said.

    He prayed God to comfort the family and give them the fortitude to bear the loss.

    Also speaking, Sanwo-Olu described the passing of Okupe as a profound loss to the nation, saying the deceased was an accomplished and an astute politician.

    “Dr Okupe was a distinguished stateman, a seasoned public affairs commentator, and a dedicated public servant, whose contribution to Nigeria’s political landscape spanned several decades.

    “His unwavering commitment to democracy, to governance, and national development earned him the respect of his colleagues and admirers across party lines.

    “His voice was one of clarity, one of conviction, and always advocating for a better Nigeria. Beyond his public service, he was a dear friend of mineas well as a devoted family man, and a mentor to many, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

    “His strength in the face of adversity was inspiring, and his love for Nigeria was undeniable,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    Other associates, friends and family members of late Okupe, in their tributes,  said that the late presidential spokesman lived a life of impact and touched many lives.

    In his tribute, Mr Dewunmi Okupe, one of deceased’s  sons, described his late father as  titan, who “loved God deeply, openly and with conviction”

    He said Okupe also showed great love to hid children.

    “My father achieved so much in life;  he impacted nation and changed lives.He was a giant who left so many legacies behiind. Instead of goodbye ,we say thank you,” he said .

    In his sermon, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of the Pastor in Charge of Trinity House,, said he had known Okupe’s family  for a long time, saying the deceased saw it all, made good choices in life,though with a  few mistakes.

    Reading  from Deuteronomy 30:15-20, the cleric said that life is about the choices that we make.

    “A lot of us might have not been through what we went through if we had made good choices.

    “Dr Okupe was so loving, caring, loving, humble, kind and respectful. I want to salute Dr Doyin Okupe and thank him for his incredibly large heart. We must seek to make right choices before departing this world ,” the cleric said.

    Among prominent Nigerians that attended the programme were the  2023 LP Presidential Campaign, Mr Peter Obi and his wife,  Margaret.

    Many old boys of  Igbobi College , Okupe’s alma mater,  also attended the programme.

    They  spoke in turns to celebrate the life and times of Okupe and also   recited  the school’s anthem to honour him

  • Just In: Family of late Doyin Okupe announces burial date

    Just In: Family of late Doyin Okupe announces burial date

    A former presidential spokesperson and politician, Dr. Doyin Okupe, will be laid to rest on March 28 in his hometown, Iperu Remo, Ogun State, family sources have confirmed.

    It would be recalled that Okupe, a physician and politician, who played significant roles in Nigeria’s political landscape, including serving as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan died on March 7 at the age of 71.

    Reports indicated that, the burial lis expected to attract political associates, dignitaries, and well-wishers from across the country.

    Further details regarding the funeral proceedings will be announced by the family in the coming days.

  • Lagos Governor mourns Okupe

    Lagos Governor mourns Okupe

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of Dr Doyin Okupe, a former Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo.

    Okupe also served as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan. He was a physician and co-founder of Royal Cross Medical Centre.

    Sanwo-Olu described Okupe’s death, at the age of 72, as a significant loss to Nigeria, particularly the people of Ogun. He extended his condolences to the family.

    In a statement on Friday, issued by his Special Adviser, Mr Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu praised Okupe’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape.

    Okupe was also the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign. He was a former National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC).

    Known for his bold positions and unfiltered opinions, Okupe was an accomplished politician and strategist, contributing greatly to political and national issues.

    Sanwo-Olu expressed his grief, saying, “On behalf of my family, the people, and the government of Lagos, I mourn the loss of Dr Doyin Okupe.

    “He was an experienced politician and strategist with over three decades of active involvement in Nigerian politics.

    “He was involved during the Third Republic as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC).”

    Sanwo-Olu highlighted Okupe’s work as Special Assistant to President Obasanjo, Senior Special Assistant to President Jonathan, and Publicist for Senator Bukola Saraki and Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    As Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, Sanwo-Olu also commiserated with Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun, over the loss of a political icon.

    Sanwo-Olu further acknowledged Okupe’s medical contributions. “As a doctor, he positively impacted many lives and worked in both public and private hospitals across Nigeria.”

    He added, “Okupe co-founded Royal Cross Medical Centre in Obalende, Lagos. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, especially the political community.”

    The governor prayed, “May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, friends, and associates the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”

  • Ex-President Jonathan breaks silence over Okupe’s demise

    Ex-President Jonathan breaks silence over Okupe’s demise

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his  former aide, Dr Doyin Okupe.

    He described Okupe as a courageous and dedicated public servant.

    Jonathan, in a statement on Friday by  his Media Aide, Ikechukwu Eze, said the late politician contributed to the growth and development of the country.

    “It is with a heavy heart that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late Okupe.

    “Okupe, who served in  my  administration as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on public affairs, was a dedicated and loyal soul.

    “He was a  passionate advocate of progress and development of our great nation,’’ he said.

    The former President also affirmed that Okupe demonstrated unwavering commitment, exceptional diligence, and a profound sense of duty.

    “Okupe’s  contributions to my  administration and his relentless efforts in defending our policies to advance  good governance will always be remembered.

    “He was a man of conviction, courage, and wisdom, whose impact transcended his immediate roles and touched the lives of many.

    “His  passing is a great loss to our nation, and his absence will be deeply felt.

    “As we mourn his departure, we take solace in the fact that he lived a life of purpose, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication,” Jonathan said.

  • What Ooni of Ife said about Okupe’s death

    What Ooni of Ife said about Okupe’s death

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has described the sudden passing of Dr Doyin Okupe as a rude shock and a profound loss to his family and Nigeria, as a whole.

    This is contained in a statement on Friday by Mr Moses Olafare, Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace,  Ile-Ife, Osun.

    The traditional ruler described the death of Okupe as a celebrated and glorious passing of an illustrious son of Oduduwa and a distinguished statesman, bidding him farewell with deep respect.

    According to him, the deceased was a man of great intellect, unwavering patriotism, and remarkable contributions to national development.

    Ooni emphasised that Okupe’s voice resonated with courage, wisdom, and a firm commitment to democracy and good governance.

    The royal father explained that, through decades of service, Okupe played pivotal roles in shaping Nigeria’s political discourse and public service, leaving a legacy of diligence, resilience, and progressive leadership.

    Ogunwusi stated that his departure created a void in national politics, yet his impact would continue to inspire future generations.

    “The House of Oduduwa stands in solidarity with his family, the government and people of Ogun, the entire descendants of Oduduwa globally, and all Nigerians mourning this irreparable loss.

    “As we bid him farewell, we pray that the Almighty Olodumare grants his soul eternal rest and comforts his loved ones during this difficult time,” Ooni stated.

  • Tinubu, Abiodun, Osuntokun mourn over Okupe’s death

    Tinubu, Abiodun, Osuntokun mourn over Okupe’s death

    President Bola Tinubu on Friday extended his condolences to the family, friends and associates of Prince Doyin Okupe, a medical doctor, politician, who died on Friday at 72.

    Tinubu described Okupe as a bold and articulate advocate for national development, expressing sorrow over his death at a time when his wealth of experience and insight were still invaluable to the nation.

    The President commiserated with the government and people of Ogun, particularly the Iperu-Remo community, who lost an esteemed son and leader, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement.

    He recognised Okupe’s enduring impact on his home state and the deep void his passing left in the hearts of those who came in direct contact with him.

    Okupe served as President Goodluck Jonathan’s Senior Special Assistant on public affairs and President Olusegun Obasanjo’s Special Assistant on Media.

    “During his political career of over three decades, Okupe served as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC).

    “He was prominent in the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Accord Party, of which he was the national leader,” said the President.

    Abiodun describes Okupe’s death as personal loss

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has described the death of Dr Doyin Okupe as a personal loss.

    Abiodun stated this in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media, Kayode Akinmade.

    The governor said that Okupe’s passing came shortly after the demise of a revered figure, the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo.

    Abiodun, who paid tribute to Okupe’s lifelong service to Nigeria, noted that he remained a patriotic statesman and a committed member of the progressive political family until his final moments.

    “Receiving the news of the passing of my elder brother, Dr Doyin Okupe has left me with a profound sense of personal loss.

    “Without a doubt, Okupe’s departure leaves a void that will not be easily filled.

    “Beyond his political and professional engagements, Dr Okupe was an 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,” he said.

    Abiodun acknowledged Okupe’s fluid political journey, emphasising that while his affiliations changed over time, his relationships with family, friends and associates remained intact.

    “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 Tinubu’s progressive vision,” Abiodun said.

    The governor concluded his tribute with a heartfelt prayer: “It is my sincere prayer that Almighty God grants his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

    It was gathered that Okupe, from Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government area of Ogun State, died in the early hours of Friday in Lagos at the age of 72.

    Osuntokun mourns former Presidential Spokesman, Okupe

    A former Director-General of the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Campaign Council, Mr Akin Osuntokun, has mourned the passing of a former Presidential Spokesman, Dr Doyin Okupe.

    Okupe died in the early hours of Friday at  an undisclosed hospital in Lagos.

    Osuntokun, a former NAN Managing Director ,told a correspondent of the agency that Okupe  contributed greatly to the nation’s democracy.

    “He (Okupe) made his own unique contributions to Nigerian politics, there is  no way anybody can write about Nigerian politics in the past 50 years without  mentioning  his name.

    “He was a key political figure with great vigour, he brought creativity to the politics of Nigeria. May his soul rest in peace,” Osuntokun said.

    Okupe served a Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later served as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

    He later served as the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign, a role Osuntokun  assumed after Okupe stepped down.

    Okupe became a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, after Tinubu was announced  winner of the 2023 presidential election, granting frequent  media interviews to voice his support for the President.

  • UPDATE: Okupe’s aide opens up on his demise

    UPDATE: Okupe’s aide opens up on his demise

    Mr Mayowa Banwo, the Personal Assistant of former Presidential Spokesman and ex-chieftain of Labour Party, Dr Doyin Okupe, has confirmed the death of his boss.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Banwo confirmed that Dr Okupe died on Friday at the age of 72 as earlier reported.

    Banwo said Okupe died in the  early hours of  Friday at an undisclosed private hospital in Lagos.

    He, however, said he did not have any information about the cause of his death.

    “Yes, it is true that he passed away. He died overnight at a hospital in Lagos.

    “On the cause of his death, I do not know know any thing about that. All I know is that he has passed away.

    “His death is a rude shock to all of us. He was a fantastic man ,he will be sorely missed”, he said.

    On the delay in the confirmation of the late politician’s death by family members, Banwo said it was expected as all his  children were out of the country.

    “However, I can confirm to you that they are on their way back to the country to give other details about his death”, he said.

    Okupe was Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

    He was also a former Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign.

    The politician was also  a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu and his reforms,granting many  media interviews to express his admiration  for Tinubu and support for his agenda for the country, months before his death.

  • What Peter Obi said about Okupe’s death

    What Peter Obi said about Okupe’s death

    The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has described the death of his former campaign director general, Doyin Okupe as a shock to him.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the former Anambra governor, Obi, said the news of Okupe’s death has thrown him and all members of the Obidient family into mourning.

    Obi who called for prayers for Okupe and the family, further described Okupe as his elder brother, saying his death has left a space in Nigeria’s political space.

    “With great sadness this morning, I received the shocking news of the death of my dear elder brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe. On behalf of the family and the Obidient family, I sincerely mourn his passing.

    “Dr. Okupe was an active figure in the nation’s political space and a man who desired a better Nigeria.

    “His death is a profound loss – not only to his family and loved ones but to all of us.

    “I would therefore like to urge members of the Obidient Movement and other groups to pray for the eternal repose of Dr. Okupe’s soul and to remember his family during these trying times.

    “May God Almighty, who called him home, grant him eternal rest and grant his family, and all of us, the fortitude to bear this sad and irreplaceable loss.

    “May God Almighty bless his family always,” Peter Obi said in a personally signed statement via his X account.

  • Did he cash out before his demise? – Nigerians react to news of Doyin Okupe’s death

    Did he cash out before his demise? – Nigerians react to news of Doyin Okupe’s death

    Doyin Okupe’s passing has indeed sparked mixed reactions in Nigeria, reflecting the complex legacy he left behind. As a physician and politician, Okupe played significant roles in Nigeria’s political landscape, including serving as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

    In 2022, Okupe backed Peter Obi, a former Anambra governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour party, by joining the party.

    He however, stepped down from Obi’s campaign after being convicted of money laundering in December of the same year.

    After the 2023 general elections, Okupe in a surprising political shift, resigned from the Labour Party and became a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    The negative reactions to Okupe’s death have sparked a debate about his legacy and whether he should be remembered as a hero or a villain. Some have praised his dedication to public service and his commitment to speaking his mind on national issues, while others have criticized his actions as self-serving.

    TheNewsGuru has complied some of the mixed reactions greeted by Okupe’s death:

    @Ugochukuw_96 wrote: “If he was a good man, may he rest in peace. If he was a bàd man, may his soul not rest in peace”

    @doneneks wrote: “He couldn’t stand for the truth even in his last days. Such a terrible legacy to leave behind. Tueh!”

    @EMZO_001 said: “A good man lost. Rest on sir.”

    @muonago_n said: “Doyin Okupe is never a leader For your information the only leader among these names you mentioned here is Pa Ayo Adebanjo. He was a good and honest man, the other 2 are controlled by their greed and stomach.”

    @delux_k wrote: “Three notable leaders passed within a month: Edwin Clark, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, and Dr. Doyin Okupe. Death is an inevitable end for everyone. The real question is: What principles & values will you be remembered for? Let this guide our journey through life. Selah!”

    @DeemDozen said: “I’ll mourn for an unknown kid but will never mourn for a politician or a king.”

    @Chimaizuobi wrote: “This is to tell everyone how much of vanity the world is. Whether good or bad; we’ll all leave someday. If there’s an afterlife; I pray he gets what he deserves.”

    @bankkeys said: “The truth and legacy we uphold are significant in life, especially for the youth who will narrate your story to future generations. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

    @EmekaEK said: “Even the APC coven couldn’t sustain him. Did he cash out before his demise? He w9nt be fondly remembered”

    @Gozie_mu said: “REST IN PEACE DR DOYIN OKUPE!!! The wicked and evil government you supported will continue to deal with your kids and grandchildren. You left a legacy of stomach infrastructure and moral decay”