ABEOKUTA – Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Doyin Okupe, describing it as a “profound personal loss.” Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson and political strategist, passed away on Friday morning at the age of 72 after battling an illness.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Governor Abiodun, in a statement, noted the pain of Okupe’s departure, especially as it followed closely after the passing of the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo.
“Receiving the news of the passing of my elder brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe, has left me with a profound sense of personal loss,” the governor said. “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.”
The governor acknowledged Okupe’s contributions to Nigerian democracy, highlighting how he endured detention and persecution under military regimes for his convictions.
Despite shifting political affiliations—from the National Republican Convention (NRC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Accord Party, and the Labour Party—Okupe maintained strong relationships across political divides. Governor Abiodun noted that even after the 2023 general election, he openly aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s progressive vision.
Okupe, a trained medical doctor, co-founded the Royal Cross Medical Centre and served in key political roles, including as Special Assistant to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan. He was also a publicist for Senator Bukola Saraki and Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“Although he trained as a medical doctor, Dr. Okupe excelled in media and political communications,” Abiodun said. “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.”
Born on March 22, 1952, in Iperu Kingdom, Ogun State, Okupe attended St. Jude’s School, Ebute Metta, Igbobi College, and the University of Ibadan, where he trained as a medical doctor. He worked at St. Nicholas Hospital, Lagos, before founding Royal Cross Medical Centre in Obalende.
Governor Abiodun praised Okupe’s unwavering dedication to national development despite battling health challenges in his later years. “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.”
The governor offered condolences to Okupe’s family and prayed for strength to bear the loss. “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.”
“Adieu, dear brother. May your soul rest in eternal peace,” Abiodun concluded.
