President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and several prominent Nigerians gathered on Thursday in Lagos to honour the late Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former Presidential Spokesman and Director-General of the Labour Party.
Okupe, who passed away on March 7, will be laid to rest on Friday in his hometown, Iperu, Ogun State.
In a tribute delivered on behalf of President Tinubu, Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Tunde Rahman, described Okupe’s death as a personal loss despite their political differences.
“The death of Dr. Okupe is a great loss to the nation, particularly the political class. He was an erudite politician, a strategist, and a communication expert. Just last January, he told me he had set up an office and a team to work for Mr. President’s second term in 2027,” Tinubu’s statement read.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also praised Okupe’s contributions to Nigerian politics, describing him as a “distinguished statesman” and “a dedicated public servant” who left a lasting impact on governance.
“His unwavering commitment to democracy and national development earned him respect across party lines,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Friends, family, and colleagues also paid their respects, with Okupe’s son, Dewunmi Okupe, describing his father as “a titan who impacted the nation and changed lives.”
Renowned cleric Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, who delivered a sermon at the Service of Songs, reflected on Okupe’s humility, kindness, and dedication to his family.
The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and alumni of Igbobi College, Okupe’s alma mater, who recited the school anthem in his honour.
