President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR expresses deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Raymond Dokpesi, the founder of Daar Communications, the parent company of African Independence Television (AIT) and Raypower. Chief Raymond Dokpesi passed away on Monday at an Abuja hospital.
In an official statement released from the President’s office on Monday evening, President Tinubu described the death of the renowned media mogul as a significant loss to both the Nigerian media industry and the country as a whole.
“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.”
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the management and staff of DAAR Communications, as well as to the family of the late media entrepreneur, acknowledging the magnitude of their loss.
The news of the passing of Chief Dokpesi was announced by his son, Raymond Dokpesi Jr., in a statement where he shared that the chairman of DAAR Communications passed away on Monday, May 29, 2023.
“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.”
Born on October 25, 1951, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Chief Raymond Dokpesi hailed from Agenebode, Edo State, where his parents originated. He made a remarkable entry into the Nigerian mass media industry with his company, DAAR Communications, and established Africa Independent Television (AIT), a prominent Nigerian TV network.
Moreover, Chief Dokpesi served as the chairman of the organizing committee for the People’s Democratic Party national conference in 2015.
