‘He was a principled man’ — Dapo Abiodun pays tribute to Doyin Okupe

Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun state, has mourned the passing of Doyin Okupe, a former presidential aide. 

Okupe died on Friday at the age of 72, after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Abiodun said he was deeply saddened by the news, particularly as it came soon after the death of the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo.

The governor praised Okupe’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, highlighting his role in resisting military rule.

Abiodun described Okupe as a “principled man”, adding that he remained a patriotic statesman until his final moments.

“Receiving the news of the passing of my elder brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe has left me with a profound sense of personal loss, especially coming so soon after the transition of the Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo. Without a doubt, Dr. Okupe’s departure leaves a void that will not be easily filled,” the governor said.

“Beyond his political and professional engagements, Dr. Okupe was an affable, easy-going, and principled individual who, despite never flaunting his credentials, played a significant role in Nigeria’s resistance to military rule.

“Like many other democracy advocates, he endured detention and persecution under military regimes, standing firm in his convictions.”

Abiodun also reflected on Okupe’s shifting political affiliations, noting that despite moving between parties, he maintained strong relationships with friends and colleagues.

“Although he shifted political alliances as situations evolved, aligning with the National Republican Convention (NRC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Accord Party, and the Labour Party, he never severed ties with his friends across political platforms. Even after the 2023 general election, he openly admired and aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s progressive vision,” he said.

“Okupe was one of those rare politicians who could disagree without being disagreeable. He never used foul language, always remained respectful in discourse, and was quick to acknowledge his mistakes while bowing to superior arguments. Humility was his defining trait.”

During his political career, Okupe served as special assistant on media and publicity to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and later as senior special assistant on public affairs to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.