Former Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Rowland Owie, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Raymond Dokpesi, the revered founder of DAAR Communications.
Chief Dokpesi, widely regarded as the “doyen of private broadcasting in Africa,” left behind an extraordinary legacy that made him one of Nigeria’s most influential media executives.
In his statement, Senator Owie paid tribute to Chief Dokpesi, acknowledging his significant contributions and indelible achievements as a distinguished son of Edo State.
He described Chief Dokpesi as an exceptional businessman and a media mogul who fearlessly ventured into private broadcasting, paving the way for countless others.
“The Ezomo of Weppa-Wanno, Chief Dokpesi was a trailblazer and a visionary. His remarkable journey began with academic excellence as a scholar in Poland before returning to Nigeria to establish himself as an expert in the shipping industry.
“He founded Nigeria’s first shipping line and later embarked on the revolutionary path of broadcasting when the media business was deregulated in the country,” Senator Owie remarked.
“Chief Dokpesi’s groundbreaking creation, Africa Independent Television (AIT), achieved numerous milestones in the broadcasting sector. It became Nigeria’s first satellite television and expanded its reach to North America and Europe, showcasing Nigeria’s exceptional entrepreneurial spirit to the world.
“Beyond his accomplishments in business, Chief Dokpesi played an instrumental role as a prominent Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His wealth of experience and expertise greatly contributed to the effective management of party affairs.
“A worthy son of Edo State, Chief Dokpesi will forever be remembered for his pursuit of excellence and unwavering entrepreneurial spirit,” Senator Owie emphasized.
Senator Owie extended his heartfelt condolences to the Dokpesi family, the people of Weppa-Wanno, the Board and management of DAAR Communications, as well as Chief Dokpesi’s friends and associates.
He prayed that the Almighty God would grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
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