The founder of DAAR Communications PLC, the operator of AIT and Ray Power FM is reportedly dead.
According to a family member, the chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) died in Abuja on Monday at the age of 71.
On behalf of the family, the first son of late media mogul, Raymond Dokpesi Junior, confirmed the death in a press statement.
“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,” the press statement read.
“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.
He said the family will release further details on the funeral arrangements in due course.
Meanwhile, a family member said Dokpesi had suffered a stroke shortly after the recent Ramadan fast and had been managing his health since.
The family source said Dokpesi was eventually placed on occupational therapy to improve his daily activities through walking out at the gym.
The source said during one of his routine gym exercises, Dokpesi was electrocuted while using one of the gym equipment, leading to a stroke and his eventual death.
In 2020, Raymond Dokpesi and members of his family were hospitalized at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital after they were diagnosed with COVID-19. They, however, survived the disease.
Dokpesi founded the African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM and was the deputy Director-General of technical and systems of Atiku Abubakar’s Presidential Campaign Council.
