Former Presidential Spokesperson Doyin Okupe Passes Away at 72

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Doyin Okupe 

Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former spokesperson to ex-Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, has passed away at the age of 72.

Okupe, a native of Iperu-Remo in Ogun State, reportedly battled an illness before passing away in the early hours of Friday in Lagos. His death was confirmed by Jamiu Ashimi, Chairman of Ikenne Local Government, and close associates, including Chief Michael Adesanya.

A medical doctor turned politician, Okupe played key roles in Nigeria’s political landscape. He served as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Obasanjo and as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Jonathan. He was also the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign before stepping down after a money laundering conviction.

Despite controversies, Okupe remained an influential figure, later aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Known for his outspoken nature and strategic political maneuvers, he left a lasting mark on Nigerian politics.

Beyond politics, Okupe co-founded Royal Cross Medical Centre and once served as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention. He also aspired to govern Ogun State under the Peoples Democratic Party.

His death marks the end of a remarkable career in both medicine and politics.

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