Tinubu, Gov Abiodun, Obi Mourn Doyin Okupe
The Nigerian political scene just lost a major player, and the tributes are rolling in. President Bola Tinubu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi have all expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Prince Doyin Okupe, a man who wore many hats, from medicine to politics to media strategy.
A Life of Service
Okupe was no ordinary politician. He was a medical doctor turned political heavyweight, making waves in Nigeria’s governance for over 30 years. He served as former President Goodluck Jonathan’s senior special assistant on public affairs and was also a key media aide to President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Beyond that, he played active roles in multiple political parties, from the National Republican Convention (NRC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and, more recently, as the national leader of the Accord Party. Most notably, he was the Director-General of the Labour Party’s Presidential Campaign in the 2023 election.
But Okupe wasn’t just about politics; he had a deep love for healthcare. He co-founded the Royal Cross Medical Centre in Lagos and even launched Life Mirror, a health-focused newspaper. Talk about a man of many talents!
Tributes Pour In
President Tinubu described Okupe as a bold and articulate advocate for national progress. He acknowledged that his experience was still much needed and expressed sorrow over the loss. He also extended prayers for Okupe’s family and the people of Ogun State, particularly his hometown, Iperu-Remo.
Governor Dapo Abiodun took the news hard, calling it a personal loss. His statement, released in Abeokuta by his Special Adviser on Media, Kayode Akinmade, noted that Okupe’s death came just after the passing of the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo. The governor described Okupe as a patriotic statesman who gave his all to Nigeria.
Labour Party’s Peter Obi also mourned the late politician, acknowledging his contributions to politics and medicine.
A Void That Won’t Be Easily Filled
Okupe’s passing leaves a significant gap, not just in politics but in public service. Whether you knew him as a political strategist, medical professional, or media guru, one thing’s for sure: his impact won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
