Dr Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson and controversial political strategist, was reported dead on Friday, aged 72.
The Ogun State-born politician was a key figure in contemporary Nigerian politics, especially in the ongoing democratic dispensation.
Okupe served as a senior adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan and he was, recently, the Director-General of the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Organisation in the 2023 elections.
However, his political journey was marked by controversies. In December 2022, Okupe stepped down from the Peter Obi campaign team after he was convicted of money laundering.
He later resigned from the Labour Party immediately after the 2023 general election.
Typical of Nigerian politicians, he made a surprised move and became a vocal and ardent supporter of the President Bola Tinubu administration, frequently engaging in political debates and commentary.
The late Okupe was known for his bold political stance and unfiltered opinions. His ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape made him both a respected and controversial figure.
Details surrounding his passing remain unclear at the time of this report.
However and according to reports, Okupe had been critically ill in recent times, leading to a deterioration of his health.
He was hospitalised in 2023, having being diagnosed with prostate cancer and was flown to Israel for treatment.
He was first diagnosed with prostate cancer 16 years ago and later developed sarcoma in his right shoulder
More details later…