10 Key Facts About the Late Dr. Doyin Okupe – Don’t be Surprised

Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson, passed away on March 7, 2025, at the age of 72. Known for his significant role in Nigerian politics, Okupe served as a senior adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and was the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign. Here are 10 important things to know about his life and legacy:

1. Early Life and Education: Born on March 22, 1952, in Iperu, Ogun State, Doyin Okupe attended St. Jude’s School and Igbobi College before pursuing higher education at the University of Ibadan.

2. Medical Career: Okupe began his professional journey in medicine, working at St. Nicholas Hospital and later co-founding the Royal Cross Medical Centre, where he held the position of Managing Director.

3. Entry into Politics: His political career kicked off when he contested for a seat in the House of Representatives under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983. He later became the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC) in the 1990s.

4. Presidential Aide Roles: Okupe served as the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and, in 2012, was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

5. Arrests and Political Challenges: He was detained in 1996 during General Sani Abacha’s military regime and was also disqualified from participating in the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) primaries in 1998.

6. Party Affiliations and Campaigns: Throughout his political career, Okupe was associated with multiple parties, including the PDP, Accord Party, and Labour Party. He played key roles in the campaigns of Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Bukola Saraki, and Atiku Abubakar.

7. EFCC Investigation: In 2012, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigated him over allegations of unexecuted contracts in Benue and Imo states.

8. Personal Life: Doyin Okupe was married to Aduralere Okupe and was a father of two children.

9. Health Battles: He was among those who survived COVID-19 in 2020, recovering alongside his wife.

10. Final Political Role: Initially chosen as Peter Obi’s running mate for the 2023 Presidential election under the Labour Party, Okupe stepped down after a substantive vice-presidential candidate was selected.

Dr. Doyin Okupe’s legacy is marked by his contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, his resilience through controversies, and his outspoken nature on national issues.