Profile of late ex-presidential spokesman, Doyin Okupe

Dr. Doyin Okupe’s life weaves an intriguing tale of passion, resilience, and unwavering public service. His journey spanned the worlds of medicine, journalism, and politics leaving an indelible mark on each field. Known for his dedication to both healing and governance, his story reflects the dynamic and often turbulent nature of Nigeria’s political and social landscape.

Early Life and Education
Adedoyin Ajibike Okupe, widely known as Dr. Doyin Okupe, was born on 22 March 1952 in Iperu, Ogun State, Nigeria. He was the son of Chief Matthew Adekoya Okupe, a banker with Agbonmagbe Bank, and grew up in a family that included several siblings—his brothers Kunle, Owo, Wemi, and Larry, and his sisters Aina and Bisola. Dr. Okupe received his early education at St. Jude’s School in Ebute Metta, Lagos, and Igbobi College in Yaba, Lagos, before pursuing his medical degree at the University of Ibadan in Oyo State.

Medical Career
Though trained as a physician, Dr. Okupe’s career spanned both medicine and public service. He gained recognition for his work in the healthcare sector, notably co-founding the Royal Cross Medical Centre (also known as Royal Cross Hospital) in Obalende, Lagos alongside colleagues Dr. Seyi Roberts and Dr. Ladi Okuboyejo. As the managing director of the centre, he not only contributed to advancing healthcare services but also became known for his decisive actions in medical emergencies—for instance, in 1994, when he and Dr. Seyi Roberts famously saved a man’s life following a gunshot wound.

Political Engagement and Public Service
Dr. Okupe’s foray into politics was as multifaceted as his medical career. He began his political journey during the Second Nigerian Republic as a House of Representatives candidate under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983. Later, during the Third Nigerian Republic, he became the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC) and was actively involved in monitoring electoral processes.

Despite his contributions, his political career faced significant challenges. He was detained on 3 October 1996 during the military regime of General Sani Abacha and was subsequently disqualified from participating in the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) primaries amid the turbulent transition programme in 1998.

In the Fourth Nigerian Republic, Dr. Okupe served as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and, in 2012, as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan. He also ventured into electoral politics as a governorship aspirant in Ogun State under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and played influential roles as a publicist for various PDP presidential aspirants. Later, after brief affiliations with the Accord Party, he returned to the PDP and eventually joined the Labour Party ahead of the 2023 general elections, even standing as the running mate (vice-presidential candidate) until a substantive candidate was chosen.

Personal Life
Dr. Okupe was married to Aduralere Okupe, and together they had two children. Interestingly, while Dr. Okupe supported the PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 Nigerian General Election, his son Ditan publicly backed Muhammadu Buhari. In addition, his other son, Bolu, who is based in Paris, made headlines in January 2021 by coming out as gay on social media, and both he and Dr. Okupe later expressed support for Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential race. In a testament to his resilience, both Dr. Okupe and his wife tested positive for COVID-19 in April 2020 but eventually made a full recovery.

Controversies and Legal Challenges
Dr. Okupe’s career was not without its controversies. His companies were once investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged failures in executing road construction contracts awarded by Benue and Imo States. Additionally, in connection with the notorious $2 billion arms deal scandal (Dasukigate), the EFCC traced ₦702 million allegedly diverted to him. This led to his arraignment before a Federal High Court in Abuja on 59 charges related to money laundering and fund diversion in January 2019. These legal challenges marked a turbulent chapter in an otherwise multifaceted career.

Legacy
Dr. Doyin Okupe left behind a complex legacy that intertwined healthcare, politics, and public service. His contributions in the medical field and his active role in Nigerian politics have made him a prominent figure whose career was marked by both commendable public service and contentious legal battles. His life story reflects the turbulent yet transformative nature of Nigeria’s political and social landscape over several decades.