Lagos—Emotions ran high as President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other dignitaries gathered on Thursday for a Service of Songs in honor of Dr. Doyin Okupe, the former Presidential Spokesman and political strategist.
Okupe, who passed away on March 7, will be laid to rest on Friday in his hometown, Iperu, Ogun State.
Representing President Tinubu, Senior Special Assistant on Media, Tunde Rahman, described Okupe’s passing as a personal loss, despite their differing political ideologies.
“The nation, especially the political class, has lost a brilliant strategist, communicator, and leader,” Rahman stated. He revealed that Okupe had been actively working on plans to support Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, believing in the president’s vision for Nigeria’s transformation.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also spoke of Okupe’s unwavering dedication to democracy and governance, calling him a statesman whose influence cut across party lines.
“His strength in adversity was inspiring, and his love for Nigeria was undeniable,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Okupe’s son, Dewunmi, described his father as a “giant who left behind a legacy of love, impact, and conviction.”
Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, who delivered the sermon, reflected on Okupe’s life choices and urged attendees to strive for a meaningful existence.
Among those present were Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his wife, Margaret, alongside former classmates from Igbobi College, who paid their respects by singing the school anthem.
As Nigeria bids farewell to Okupe, his legacy as a fearless advocate, political tactician, and family man lives on.
