Dokpesi, true titan of media industry – Sanwo-Olu
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday mourned the passage of accomplished businessman and pioneer in the private media industry, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi.
Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence statement issued on Monday by his Media Adviser, Mr Gboyega Akosile, said the late Dokpesi was a true titan of the media industry.
He described the death as a colossal loss to Nigeria, while sympathising with the entire management and staff of African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM, as well as friends and associates of the deceased.
According to him, the late Dokpesi would be remembered for breaking the monopoly of government-owned broadcasting in Nigeria, with the establishment of the first private radio station, Ray Power FM.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I mourn the passage of the businessman and media guru, who contributed his quota to the economy of Lagos State, by providing job opportunities for many young Lagos residents in the media sector.
“High Chief Raymond Dokpesi was a forerunner in private broadcasting in Nigeria. He established the first privately owned television and radio in Nigeria.
“His bold decision to break the government monopoly in the broadcasting sector gave birth to hundreds of privately owned television and radio stations in Nigeria,” he said.
The Governor said that late Dokpesi was also an active participant in Nigeria politics during the present Fourth Republic and served his party and Nigeria in different capacities.
He said that the AIT Founder was a philanthropist, who dedicated his life to the service of his community, state, and country.
“His dedication to his profession and job creation in the media sector will be cherished. He leaves behind a legacy of breaking barriers and serving his community.
“May his legacy inspire future generations to strive for excellence in the media sector.
“I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Dr Dokpesi and pray that God grants the media industry and the deceased family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Sanwo-Olu said.
