Esther Salifu
Dr. Doyin Okupe, a renowned Nigerian physician, politician, and former presidential aide, has passed away at the age of 72.
He died in Lagos on Friday after battling an illness for some time.
The Chairman of Ikenne Local Government, Jamiu Ashimi, confirmed the passing of the medical doctor-turned-politician to our correspondent on Friday.
Ashimi said, “I just confirmed the tragic news of the passing of Dr Doyin Okupe. May his soul rest in peace”.
Born in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, Okupe had a distinguished career that bridged medicine and politics. He co-founded the Royal Cross Medical Centre and gained prominence as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention. In government, he served as a trusted aide to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, holding key positions such as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, respectively.
Throughout his political journey, Okupe was known for his bold views and unfiltered opinions. His career was not without controversy, including a conviction for breaching money laundering laws in December 2022. Following the fallout from the 2023 general election, he resigned from the Labour Party and later became a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Okupe’s ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape earned him a reputation as a skilled politician. He is survived by his wife, Aduralere Okupe, and several children.
