The proprietor Ray Power FM and African Independent Television (AIT) under the management of Daar Communications, Chief Raymond Aleogho Anthony Dokpesi, is dead.
Dokpesi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, reportedly died on Monday in an Abuja hospital at the age of 71.
Dokpesi, who suffered a stroke during the last Ramadan fast, was said to have been a health challenge and has been placed on occupational therapy to improve his daily activities.
Meanwhile, his son, Raymond Dokpesi Jr, has confirmed the media mogul’s death.
In a statement, he said: “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.
He said the family will release further details on the funeral arrangements in due course.
Also, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was sworn-in today as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has said late Dokpesi would be sorely missed.
In a condolence message contained in a statement issued in Abuja by his media officer, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, President Tinubu mourned Dokpesi’s death.
Describing Dokpesi’s death as a huge loss to the Nigerian media industry and the country, the President said: “The death of High Chief Raymond Dokpesi is a blow to the media industry where he has played pioneering roles in private broadcasting. His pacesetting investment in the industry is an inspiration to many who come after him.
“The history of the evolution of the Nigerian media industry will be incomplete without prominent mention of Dokpesi and his giant footprints on the media landscape.
“I express my sincere condolences to the management and staff of Daar Communications and the family of the late media entrepreneur for this monumental loss.”
