Adedoyin Ajibike Okupe (March 22, 1952 – March 7, 2025), popularly known as Doyin Okupe, was a Nigerian physician, politician, and media strategist. He co-founded Royal Cross Medical Centre and served as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
Okupe was a key figure in Nigerian politics, serving as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.
Early Life & Education
Born in Iperu, Ogun State, during British rule, Okupe was the son of Chief Matthew Adekoya Okupe, a banker at Agbonmagbe Bank. He had four brothers—Kunle, Owo, Wemi, and Larry Okupe—and two sisters, Aina Okanlawon and Bisola Ayeni.
He attended St. Jude’s School, Ebute Metta, Igbobi College, Yaba, and later graduated from the University of Ibadan as a medical doctor.
Political Career
Despite his medical background, Okupe was deeply involved in politics. He was once detained under General Sani Abacha’s regime, which led to his disqualification from contesting in the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) primaries. Later, he became a governorship aspirant under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State.
Beyond politics, he also ventured into media, publishing a health-focused newspaper called Life Mirror.
Battle with Cancer
In his final years, Okupe battled cancer, which led to significant weight loss. He revealed in an interview with Channels Television that chemotherapy drastically affected his appetite and weight.
“When I started chemotherapy, I was 127kg, and then I came down to 97kg… the chemotherapy ended, and I went back to 103kg,” he shared.
Death
Okupe passed away in the early hours of March 7, 2025, as confirmed by family sources. His death was met with widespread mourning.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described his passing as a “personal loss”, stating:
“Dr. Okupe’s departure leaves a void that will not be easily filled. Beyond his political and professional engagements, he was an affable, easy-going, and principled individual who played a significant role in Nigeria’s resistance to military rule.”
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, his exact net worth was not publicly available.
May his soul rest in peace.