In a somber atmosphere filled with tears and heartfelt
emotions, Raymond Dokpesi, the late chairman
of DAAR Communications, was laid
to rest in his hometown of Agenebode, Edo State. The burial ceremony, held on
Thursday, was attended by his grieving family, close friends, political
associates, and numerous well-wishers who came to pay their final respects.
Prior to the interment, a solemn requiem mass took place at
the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Agenebode. The church echoed with sorrowful
hymns and prayers as the community gathered to bid farewell to a prominent
figure.
Among the notable attendees at the interment were Osun State
Governor Ademola Adeleke and esteemed media entrepreneur Dele Momodu. Their
presence added weight to the significance of the occasion and served as a
testament to the impact that Dokpesi had made in both the political and media
spheres.
Before the burial, a service of songs had been held at the
late chairman’s residence in Edo State the previous day. It provided an
opportunity for loved ones to reminisce about Dokpesi’s life, share fond
memories, and find solace in each other’s presence during this difficult time.
The funeral proceedings began earlier in the week with a
“day of tributes” held at The Ballroom International Conference
Centre in Abuja. Dignitaries from various walks of life gathered to honor
Dokpesi’s legacy, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples
Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in Kogi State, Dino Melaye, Dele
Momodu, and Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki. Their presence highlighted the
widespread respect and admiration that Dokpesi had garnered throughout his
lifetime.
Following the interment, guests were welcomed to St. Peter’s
Grammar School compound in Agenebode, where they were provided with hospitality
and comfort. The gathering allowed individuals to come together, share stories,
and offer support to one another as they celebrated the life of a remarkable
man who had left an indelible mark on their lives.
Raymond Dokpesi, a visionary leader and the chairman of DAAR
Communications, which encompasses Africa Independent Television (AIT) and
RayPower FM, had passed away on May 29 at the age of 71. His untimely demise
occurred just weeks after he reportedly suffered a stroke, leaving behind a
legacy that will be remembered for years to come. As his loved ones bid him a
final farewell, they cherished the memories he had created and vowed to carry
on his remarkable work in the fields of media and politics.
