By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-South Vice Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, has mourned the demise of High Chief Raymond Dokpesi, founder of DAAR Communications, owners of Raypower FM Radio and AIT.
Dokpesi, a PDP chieftain from Edo State, died on Monday, May 29 at the age of 71 years. He passed on at a hospital in Abuja, a statement by the family noted.
Reacting in a statement made available to pressmen Monday night, Orbih described the passing of the media giant as “shocking.”
The statement partly read, “I was shocked when I received the news of the passage of Chief Raymond Aliogho Dokpesi. I am yet to process the fact that he is no longer with us. Words have failed me to express how I feel during this very sad moment.
“Chief Raymond Dokpesi, until his death was an eminent son of Weppa-Wanno who distinguished himself as the first individual to build the business of private broadcasting in Nigeria. His mark in the broadcasting media in Nigeria is etched in the annals of history. His effort opened the floodgate for private ownership of broadcasting houses in the country.”
Orbih added that Chief Dokpesi was an outstanding member of the PDP and was ably and deservedly nominated by the PDP South~South Zonal working Committee to the position of member, Board of Trustees.
“No doubt, Chief Raymond Dokpesi lived a good life. His outstanding achievements both in media and politics will inspire the younger generation.
“My condolences to the entire Dokpesi family, the people of Weppa-Wanno, the Edo State people and Nigerians in general. I pray that the Almighty God will grant us the fortitude to bear the loss, and I pray for the repose of his soul.”
