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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
The founder of DAAR Communications plc, owners of AIT and Raypower FM, Chief Raymond Dokpesi is dead.
It was gathered that the 71-year-old media mogul died on Monday at a hospital in Abuja.
Dokpesi reportedly suffered a stroke shortly after the recent Ramadan fast and had been managing his health since.
In 2020, Raymond Dokpesi and members of his family were hospitalised at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital after they were diagnosed with COVID-19. They, however, survived the disease.
Dokpesi founded the African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM and was the deputy Director-General (Technical and Systems) of Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Council for the 2023 presidential election.
The eldest son of the deceased, Raymond Dokpesi Jnr, confirmed the death of his father in a statement issued on Monday.
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of High Chief Raymond Aleogho Anthony Dokpesi (Ezomo of Weppa-Wanno Kingdom) who passed away on May 29th, 2023. High Chief Dokpesi was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“High Chief Dokpesi was also a respected and accomplished businessman, a pioneer in the media industry, and a philanthropist who dedicated his life to the service of his country and his community. His legacy will live on through the impact he made on the lives of many.
“The Dokpesi family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. We ask that you keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of our patriarch. We also ask for privacy during this time as we grieve together as a family.
“The family will release further details on the funeral arrangements in due course.
“May his soul rest in peace,” the statement read.
