Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson and physician, has passed away at the age of 72. His death was confirmed on March 7, 2025, following a prolonged battle with cancer.
Sources close to the family revealed that Dr. Okupe had been critically ill for several weeks before his death. His health had steadily declined in recent months, leading to growing concern among his loved ones, colleagues, and supporters.
The circumstances surrounding his passing have been linked to cancer, which he had been battling for many years. The late physician and political figure had been diagnosed with prostate cancer 16 years ago, and over time, the disease took a toll on his body. He later developed sarcoma, a type of cancer that affected his right shoulder.
In October 2023, it was reported that Dr. Okupe had been hospitalised due to his prostate cancer. The severity of his condition led to his medical evacuation to Israel, where he sought treatment in hopes of improving his health. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of medical professionals and the support of his family, his condition did not improve as expected.
Over the years, he held various important positions in Nigerian politics, most notably serving as a presidential aide under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and later under President Goodluck Jonathan. Throughout his career, he was known for his outspoken views and active participation in national issues.
Born in the 1950s, Dr. Okupe was a well-educated and accomplished individual. He earned a degree in medicine and had a successful career in the health sector before transitioning into politics. His political journey began when he became an influential member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s ruling party for many years. He was often at the centre of key political discussions, using his platform to advocate for various causes, including healthcare reform, good governance, and national development.
Dr. Okupe was also known for his role as a public spokesperson for his political leaders. His outspoken nature made him a key figure in government circles, but it also led to controversies at times. He was never afraid to speak his mind, even when his opinions were unpopular, and his candidness earned him both praise and criticism in equal measure.
His health struggles were not public knowledge until recent years. In 2023, news of his diagnosis and treatment efforts in Israel shocked many Nigerians, who admired him for his resilience and his dedication to public service. Despite his deteriorating health, Dr. Okupe remained an active participant in political discourse, frequently offering his views on national matters.
Dr. Okupe’s passing is also a reminder of the ongoing fight against cancer in Nigeria, a country where many citizens continue to struggle with access to proper medical care. While he sought treatment abroad, many Nigerians cannot afford such options and often have to rely on local facilities that may not have the necessary resources to combat the disease effectively. This has sparked renewed calls for better healthcare infrastructure and more accessible cancer treatment options in the country.
