Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, others extol Doyin Okupe’s virtues at Service of Songs
By Adeola Ogunrinde
President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other dignitaries on Thursday paid glowing tributes to the late Dr. Doyin Okupe, former Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan. The tributes were given during a Service of Songs organized by Trinity House at Victoria Island, Lagos.
President Tinubu, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Media Affairs, Mr. Tunde Rahman, described Okupe’s passing as a personal loss to him, the political class, and the nation. Rahman noted that, despite their differing political views, Tinubu and Okupe shared mutual respect and affection.
“Dr. Doyin Okupe’s death is a personal loss to President Tinubu. It is also a loss to the nation and particularly the political class because Dr. Okupe was an erudite politician, a political strategist, and a communication expert. He was determined to work for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 to the extent that he set up an office and a team dedicated to the mission. He did this because he believed the President was on a redemption mission, with policies and ideas that were timely and aimed at saving the nation,” Rahman stated.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described Okupe as a distinguished statesman, a seasoned public affairs commentator, and a dedicated public servant who lived a life of commitment and service to humanity.
He said: “Dr. Doyin Okupe was a distinguished statesman, a seasoned public affairs commentator, and a dedicated public servant whose contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape spanned several decades. His unwavering commitment to democracy, governance, and national development transcended party lines. He was an astute politician, a gentleman, and a passionate advocate for a better Nigeria. He lived a life of dedication and service to humanity.”
Sanwo-Olu also extended his condolences to the Okupe family, describing the late political figure as a devoted family man and mentor.
“Your father was a good man who lived a fulfilling life. He was a devoted family man and a mentor to many. His life was one of impact, dedication, and service to humanity. On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved patriarch, Dr. Doyin Okupe,” he said.
In their respective tributes, Okupe’s children and grandchildren described him as a peacemaker, a caring and loving father, and a man who gave his best to his family, the church, and the nation. They vowed to uphold his legacy.
Other dignitaries present at the event included the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi; former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Otunba Femi Pedro; publisher of Ovation Magazine, Chief Dele Momodu; members of the Lagos State cabinet; as well as religious and political leaders.
