AIT founder, Raymond Dokpesi, dies at 71

The founder of DAAR Communications Plc, Raymond Dokpesi, is dead.

It was gathered that Dokpesi, the founder of DAAR Communications, proprietor of Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM, died in the early hours of Monday, May 29, at the age of 71.

It was learned that the media mogul and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) died at a hospital in Abuja.

It was learned that Dokpesi suffered a stroke shortly after the recent Ramadan fast and had been managing his health since.

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A family source disclosed that Dokpesi was eventually placed on occupational therapy to improve his daily activities by walking out at the gym.

It was however gathered that during one of his routine gym exercises, Dokpesi fell from the treadmill.

“He had been ill in the last few weeks but was on his way to full recovery.

“He had a fall off his threadmill during routine gym exercise,” DAAR Communications stated in a statement.

The Dokpesi family, while confirming the PDP chieftain’s death in a statement signed by Mr Raymond Dokpesi (Jnr), expressed sadness over the incident.

The statement read: “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.

“The family will release further details on the funeral arrangements in due course.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

In 2020, Raymond Dokpesi and his family members were hospitalised at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital after they were diagnosed with COVID-19.

They, however, survived the disease.

Dokpesi was the Deputy Director-General of Technical and Systems of Atiku Abubakar’s Presidential Campaign Council.

The Star