What Happened to Raymond Dokpesi? AIT and Raypower Founder Died at 71
Raymond Dokpesi, the founder of Daar Communications Plc, the parent company of African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM, passed away on Monday, May 29, 2023 at the age of 71. His death was announced by his eldest son, Raymond Dokpesi Junior, in a statement on behalf of the family.
A Life of Service and Philanthropy
Dokpesi was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, in October 1951. He was a native of Agenebode, Edo State. He studied marine engineering at the University of Gdansk in Poland and obtained a doctorate degree in 1976. He returned to Nigeria and worked as a civil servant and a businessman before venturing into the media industry.
Dokpesi founded Daar Communications Plc in 1988 as a private media company. He launched Raypower FM in 1994 as Nigeria’s first private radio station. He also established AIT in 1996 as Nigeria’s first satellite television station. He was a pioneer and a visionary who transformed the media landscape in Nigeria and Africa.
Dokpesi was also a philanthropist who dedicated his life to the service of his country and his community. He was involved in various humanitarian and developmental projects, especially in his home state of Edo. He also supported education, health, sports, and culture initiatives across the country.
A Political Activist and a PDP Chieftain
Dokpesi was not only a media mogul but also a political activist and a chieftain of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He was an outspoken critic of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and a staunch supporter of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambition.
Dokpesi was also a member of various committees and organs of the PDP, such as the National Conference Planning Committee in 2015 and the National Reconciliation Committee in 2017. He contested for the national chairmanship of the party in 2017 but lost to Uche Secondus.
Dokpesi faced several challenges and controversies during his political career. He was arrested and charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2015 for allegedly receiving N2.1 billion from the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, as part of the arms deal scandal. He was also suspended by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in 2019 for allegedly violating the broadcasting code and owing license fees.
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Dokpesi challenged these allegations and actions in court and maintained his innocence. He also led protests and rallies to defend his rights and freedoms as a citizen and a media practitioner.
A Legacy That Lives On
Dokpesi’s death has been met with shock and sadness by many Nigerians who have expressed their condolences and tributes to his family and friends. He has been described as a legend, a hero, a mentor, and a role model by many who knew him or were influenced by him.
Dokpesi’s legacy lives on through his family, his media empire, his political associates, and his numerous admirers. He will be remembered as a man who made history and changed lives through his passion, courage, innovation, and generosity.
