President Bola Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians have expressed their condolences following the passing of Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson, who died on Friday, March 7, 2025, at the age of 72.
Okupe, who served as the media aide to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, was also the Director-General of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council in the 2023 general elections.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Okupe as a dedicated public servant who made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political discourse. He emphasized Okupe’s boldness and intellect, noting that his insights would be greatly missed.
Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, also mourned Okupe’s passing, describing him as a passionate leader committed to national development. He urged members of the Obidient Movement to pray for Okupe’s family during this difficult time.
Governors across the country also paid tribute to the late politician. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun called Okupe a patriotic statesman and democracy advocate, highlighting his contributions to Nigeria’s struggle against military rule. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised Okupe’s strategic political involvement, acknowledging his service across different administrations.
The Labour Party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, and the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, also honored Okupe’s memory, recognizing his unwavering political commitment and fearless advocacy for progressive governance.
Okupe’s political career spanned over three decades, during which he served in various capacities across multiple parties, including the National Republican Convention, the United Nigeria Congress Party, the Peoples Democratic Party, and the Accord Party. He was also known for his contributions to the medical field as the co-founder of the Royal Cross Medical Centre.
As tributes continue to pour in, many describe his passing as a significant loss to Nigeria’s political and public service landscape.
