Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his former campaign director-general, Dr. Doyin Okupe.
Okupe, a veteran politician and media strategist, died in Lagos early Friday at the age of 72. He was a key figure in Nigerian politics, having served as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.
Obi, in a heartfelt tribute on X, described Okupe as a passionate advocate for a better Nigeria.
“With great sadness this morning, I received the shocking news of the death of my dear elder brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe. On behalf of my family and the Obidient movement, I sincerely mourn his passing,” Obi wrote.
He highlighted Okupe’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, noting that his loss would be deeply felt beyond his immediate family.
“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,” Obi added.
He urged his supporters to pray for the repose of Okupe’s soul and extend their sympathies to his grieving family.
Okupe made headlines in December 2022 when he resigned from Obi’s campaign after being convicted of violating the Money Laundering Act. He later distanced himself from the Labour Party and became a strong supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, frequently engaging in political discourse.
His passing marks the end of a controversial yet impactful political career that spanned decades.
