A Heartfelt Tribute: Presidential Aides Honor Doyin Okupe's Legacy

Presidential Aides Extend Condolences to the Okupe Family

Let me tell you a story that speaks to the heart of leadership and legacy. A group of presidential aides, close to President Bola Tinubu, recently paid their respects to the family of the late Doyin Okupe. This visit wasn't just a formality—it was a heartfelt gesture to honor the life and contributions of a man who served Nigeria with distinction. Doyin Okupe, a respected public affairs strategist, passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy that resonates across the halls of power in Nigeria.

Naija News remembers Okupe as a towering figure in Nigerian politics. He served as the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to former President Goodluck Jonathan and held significant advisory roles during President Olusegun Obasanjo's tenure. His work was instrumental in shaping public discourse during some of Nigeria's most pivotal moments. Now, his memory is being honored by those he inspired and mentored.

A Personal Touch: Visiting the Family

In an emotional post on X, Temitope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, shared details of the visit. He revealed that a delegation of presidential aides traveled to the family residence in Asokoro, Abuja, to console Okupe's wife, Omolola. The visit was more than just a protocol; it was a chance to connect personally with the family and express the nation's gratitude for Dr. Okupe's service.

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Ajayi wrote, “We paid a condolence visit to Mrs. Omolola Okupe over the passing of her husband, former Presidential spokesman, Dr. Doyin Okupe, at the family’s Asokoro, Abuja residence.” These words carry weight because they reflect the deep respect and admiration colleagues have for a man who dedicated his life to public service.

A Legacy That Could Have Been

But there's another chapter to this story that speaks to the complexity of Doyin Okupe's life. It's been reported that he missed the chance to become the monarch of his hometown, Alaperu of Iperu Remo, in Ogun State, due to his declining health. The town recently lost its leader, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo, on February 6, 2025, at Babcock University Teaching Hospital. His passing left a void that many hoped Okupe could fill.

A family source speaking to SaharaReporters revealed that after Oba Idowu-Basibo's death, several kingmakers, including prominent sons and daughters of the town, approached Doyin to take up the mantle. The source noted that this consideration was significant, especially given the presence of the late monarch's cousin, Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State, who is also a distinguished son of the town.

However, due to his deteriorating health, Okupe graciously declined the offer. It's a poignant reminder that even the most accomplished among us are bound by the limitations of our bodies. Despite missing this opportunity, Doyin Okupe's legacy as a dedicated public servant and advisor to Nigerian leaders will continue to inspire generations to come.