Former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, has mourned the passing of the founder of Africa Independent Television, Raymond Dokpesi. He died yesterday, aged 71.

A statement released by Raymond Dokpesi (Jnr) reads: “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 29, 2023.

“High Chief Dokpesi was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.” Atiku, in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, noted that the late Dokpesi was a trailblazer, who reshaped the Nigerian business landscape in every sphere of his endeavour.

“Ezomo, as we fondly called him, was an enigmatic business personality, a newsmaker in life and, sadly, even in death,” the statement reads. It notes that Atiku’s immediate reaction to the news was an expression of grief and shock, saying: “Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God! I am in a state of shock!”

Atiku noted: “As we say in Islam: from God we came and to Him we return. I am in prayers and will continue in prayers! My everlasting and deepest condolences to the Raymond Dokpesi family. May God forgive his sins and grant him eternal rest. Ezomo, not on a date like this should you leave us!”

He said Dokpesi entered the corporate landscape at a relatively young age, proving the merit of his creativity with distinction. According to the former Vice President, he enjoyed a close-knit relationship with the late Dokpesi.

“Ezomo was my friend, brother, counsellor and associate, all rolled into one. He was honest, detribalised, loyal, and supremely hard working. Once committed to a cause, he will see it to a conclusion,” Atiku said. He also expressed his condolences to the management and staff of AIT, the PDP, Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, and the people and government of Edo State.

Meanwhile, Dokpesi (Jnr) extended gratitude to members of the public for their outpouring of love, adding: “We 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.”

The Southwest chapter of the PDP described the demise as a huge loss to the country and Edo State. Publicity Secretary, Sanya Atofarati, said: “It is unbelievable that such a man with vast knowledge is dead. It is quite unfortunate that the news is coming now. He played a major role in sustaining democracy in Nigeria. He did it with all honesty. We are sad that he has left, now that his vast knowledge is needed.”

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