As His Children & Family Members Reveal A Lot
The founder of AIT/Raypower High Chief Raymond Aleogho Dokpesi has been buried. He had a larger than life image before he excited. He was many things rolled into one. He was a politician.
He was a businessman. He was a Marine Transport Engineer. He attended Ebenezer African Church School, Ibadan, Loyola College, Ibadan and Immaculate Conception College, Benin City. He worked briefly with the Nigerian Ports Authority as Marine Office Cadet in 1 969 before proceeding to Poland for further studies. He attended Wyxsa Szokta Morska Gdynia and University of Gdnask Sopot for his Bachelor, Masters Degree and Doctorate Degree. He made a first class with distinction and was also the best graduating student in fifty years In Poland In Marine Transport Engineering.
He lectured in the University of Gdnask, Poland as Assistant Lecturer in Marine Transport Economics before returning to Nigeria on the invitation of the then Nigerian Head of State who was on State visit to Poland. While schooling, he held the following positions: President – Nigerian Students Union Gdansk Poland (1972 – 1974). President – African Students Union, Poland (1973), President – International Students Association, Poland (1974), President – Nigerian Students, Eastern Europe (1974). He worked with the Federal Ministry of Transport and Aviation as the Head of Water Transport Division on Secondment from Nigerian Ports, Plc (NTCC) between 1978-83. He was the Chief of Staff to the Gongola State Government from October to December 1983. Managing Director of African Ocean Line Limited from 1984-88, Chairman of Baldok Shipping Lines Limited from Feb 1989 till date. Executive Chairman – DAAR Holdings Investment & Company Limited and Rimat Properties Limited. Executive/Chairman – DAAR Communications Limited: Proprietors of the first independent Radio Station in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, RayPower 100.5FM, Africa Independent Television (AIT) , the first Afrocentric Global Television Station and Faaji FM.
He voluntarily retired as the Executive Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc in Nov 2014 and was meritoriously honoured with the position of Founder/Chairman Emeritus by the Board and the Shareholders at the 5th Annual General Manager (AGM) in Nov 2014. High Chief Aleogho Dekpesi’s remarkable role in broadcasting in the Federal Republic of Nigeria apart from pioneering private radio broadcasting – RayPower FM in 1994, and global satellite broadcasting African Independent Television (AIT) in 1996 and Faaji FM in 2012, he also revolutionized the sector through the introduction of 24 hours transmission on both radio and television right from Inception, introduction of Cyber and Chroma technology for television operations and digitalized audio and video signals on both radio and television. Through his efforts Africa Independent Television (AIT) became the first African broadcast station to transmit into the United States of America (USA) and the Host Broadcaster of the FIFA U17 World Cup for and behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2009.
To his credit and exceptional scholarship prowess are the following publications: Optimal size of Tankers for the Nigerian International Trade (1974), West African Shipping Range (1975), Technology Change in Shipping and its impact on Ports (1976). Consultation Machinery in Shipping – The West African Experience, International Multi-Modal Transport System – Implication on Nigeria Economy (1980), Investment in Shipping in Nigeria (1986). The issue of a Shipping Agent in the Marine Industry (1987). The role of Seaports in the Structural Adjustment Programme, Problems of Liner Shipping Policy and the review of the United Nations Convention on a Code of Conduct Linear Conferences – Present Status and Prospects (1991).
He is a fellow of several professional and management institutes: the Nigeria Institute of Shipping, Chartered Institute of Transport, Institute of Transport Administration, Nigerian Institute of Management, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and the Institute of Directors.
The followings are some of the National Assignments that he had been called upon at various times to perform for the Federal Republic of Nigeria: Member-Presidential Committee on Long Term Measure to solve Piracy and Security Problems in Nigerian Sea Ports and Territorial Waters (1981), Member – Chief of Defence Staff Board on Boarders and Harbor Security Force (1982), Member – Committee on Decentralization of Nigeria Ports Plc (1983), Member-Shipping Policy Implementation Committee (1985), Member-Committee on the commercialization of Nigeria Ports Pic (1987) and Member – National Conference (2014).
He is a recipient of several national and international awards which are: Dr. Kwame Nkuruamh Africa Leadership Award and Gold Medal for Excellence in Business Practice, awarded by the Foundation for Excellence in Business Practice, an organ of the United Nations based in Geneva, Switzerland. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Institute of Directors (loD) 2007 Entrepreneurial Award.
He holds the following chieftaincy titles: Ogieorumoa of Weppa Wanno – 1986, Araba of Osooroland – 1987, Osese of South Uneme-1990, Gbobaniyi of lIawe-Ekiti – 1994, Oganigwe Umu Orji Ako Nibo -1999, Sardaunna of Kapduma, Abuja 2002 and Ezomo of Weppa Wanno Land, 2003. He is a member of Island, Ikoyi and Apapa Club. He is an avid Reader, Researcher, Philanthropist and Humanitarian.
He also loves Sports, travelling and music. He is happily married with children. Below are excerpts from his wife Moji Dokpesi and children.
A TRIBUTE
TO MY ARABA
Hmmm … ERIN WO – EJA NLA LO LOMI
Araba as I fondly call you, it is still shocking and unbelievable that you have gone on a journey of no return. As each day passes, I am gradually coming to terms with the reality that you have gone to be with your maker after a very interesting and highly fulfilled life. Undoubtedly, you really enjoyed life. As I sit down to write this tribute, my heart is filled with love and gratitude. It’s hard to believe
that we have been together for so many years since I was 29 years old to be precise. Looking back on our journey together, I am in awe ofthe life we have built together both in business and in ourfamily.
You had been a partner, confidant and a rock through all of life’s ups and downs. Whether we were starting business together, navigating the complexities of blending our families or simply enjoying the small moments of joy in everyday life. Your unwavering support had been a constant source of strength.
I recall that you worked so hard and played hard because you thought you would not attain the age of 40, which necessitated serious celebrations during your 40th birthday. Thirty years after, you again celebrated your 70th birthday with an unusual, infectious joy and flamboyance before taking a final bow at 71 .
You were a unique creation of the Almighty that fulfilled so many scriptures.
- Isaiah 55v8: For my thoughts are not your thoughts neither are your ways my ways.
- Psalms 139 v 14: You are indeed fearfully and wonderfully made. There can never be two of you – Raymond Dokpesi. You did strange and wonderful things.
- Romans 8v30: Whom he predestined, this he also called, whom he called, he also justified, whom he justified, he also glorified.
- Joshua 1 v9: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged. For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
You were as bold as a lion, fearless, courageous and not easily intimidated. You were a man
that worked for a cause and not for applause. Ever ready to fight both your battles and that of others, even if they did not concern you. It took me 10 years of crying as a young girl in marriage to understand your Larger -Thon- Life personality. Thereafter, I started enjoying the marriage as soon as I turned you into a project of some sort “Why is this man like this for God’s sake?”. You did so many things, that I am yet to meet any human being that can replicate. You were extremely brilliant and yet a workaholic with an unbroken focus that enabled you pick up a book to read even at a busy ond noisy gathering. A knowledgeable and remarkable personality who left an indelible mark on every aspect of life. Be it at home, Nigeria’s Politics, Shipping, Media and Philanthropy.
I cannot forget when we travelled to Agenebode in the eighties and a Catholic Priest came to you requesting for a car to be used for evangelism. You asked me to remove my suitcases and belongings from our car and you gave the car to the Priest who almostfainted.
This is just an example of your big heart, generosity and strange style. Our onward journey to Lagos with public transport is unforgettable. You were a Beacon of Inspiration and an Embodiment of Perseverance. I recall, you sang intermittently – “There is no condition that is permanent in this world” throughout the 7 -hour trip. Your triumphant exit on 29th May, 2023 was rather dramatic but I take solace in the sovereignty of the Almighty God.
Farewell my dear Araba and thank you for the gift of your Remarkable Life. Rest on. You will be greatly missed.
Your dear wife,
–Moji Dokpesi (Idi-Araba)
My dear Raymond
I can’t believe what has happened. You were always full of life, dreams, and plans – many of which you had already achieved, and others that you still wanted to pursue because your ambitions were as big as you were. You were like a mountain above us, casting a shadow of safety that made us feel protected even when you were far away. For those who care deeply, distance is no barrier – we always kept you in our thoughts and prayers, wishing you health, prosperity, safety, and God’s care.
Now, so suddenly and unexpectedly, the candle of your life has been extinguished, and your journey has been cut short too soon. We are left speechless, with only weeping angels to console us. May God be merciful to your soul, for as we say, wherever elephants run to the water, there is always a grass that must suffer. Rest in peace, my former greatest love.
–Ella Dokpesl
A FATHER, A FRIEND, AND A MENTOR
I remember how I literally used to run to you to for guidance, advice and support, you were always there and you always had the right words or justification me, that would calm me down, that would make me laugh and that I would draw lessons from. Knowing I will not be able to run to you again truly hurts!
To me, you were a father, a friend, and a mentor. You were my motivator, my inspiration, and an incredible guide and guardian. Your inspiration was invaluable – you inspired me to be resilient, to take a worthy stance and follow through, you taught me to fight and to forgive; I learnt your generosity, compassion, and you showed me how to be friends with my children and how to protect my own.
You have held my hands through my dark days, knelt down to pray with me, cried with me, fought with me, for me and fought me, you didn’t see me as your daughter-in-law but as your child and I felt it till the end.
You always stood by me … 1 still can’t breath deeply knowing you will not be there to share all your stories, life lessons, aspirations and your ever so contagious dance with us anymore! I observed and learnt your relationships, interactions and how you never saw tribe or class in people, you were a life line for so many and alot of people depended on you. I will miss you dearly but I know that your legacy will live on through the beautiful memories you left us. You touched so many lives and your kindness and generosity will be remembered by all who knewyou. You will always have a special place in my heart. REST IN PEACE my BOYFRIEND
With love and respect.
Your Wadoyen
Adedoyin Dokpesi
IN MEMORY OF A BELOVED FATHER
I must say it is quite difficult to write this considering the last tribute I wrote was in celebration of your 70th birthday. Losing someone so beloved is a painful experience. Going up the hill and entering the house in Abuja the day after the incident was extremely distressing. Inexplicable but we cannot question God and His ways. In all things we must give thanks to God Almighty.
I hope to find comfort and peace in the memories we shared together. Our countless conversations till odd hours in the morning, your surprise visits to my schools and homes, your unexpected grand gestures, our shared champagne habit and your unusual expectation to always find me in VI waiting for you every time you visit Lagos. Your courage and fearlessness was so contagious. I recall when assassins came to the house in
VI, I was just a 14 year old girl. I opened the door when I heard the horn of your car and I saw you running. I had never seen you like that before. I don’t know where the courage came from but I was able to hold on to the door while they were shooting and you rallied the family upstairs to safety. I will never forget that day. At a point, I almost lost control of the door locks, I screamed for your help and you came straight down and placed your body weight on the door till we could lock the door.
What an experience! Amidst your flaws as with every human being, you were an INCREDIBLE person. You inspired and touched so many lives in countless ways. Your life was a true testament of courage, boldness, generosity and unwavering audaciousness. These qualities I have always admired so greatly in you. You left behind a legacy of GREATNESS, and your impact in my life and the lives of those around us will never be forgotten. In this difficult time, I know that we are not alone, and your memory will live on in the hearts for many years to come. May you find rest in the bosom of the Most High God and may your soul rest in perfect peace.
–Dolapo Phillips (Mrs.)
DAD, I THANK YOU
FOR THE SHORT TIME
WE HAD TOGETHER
When I look back, I do have regrets we didn’t see more of you. Something, I’m left to think about and deal with. I’ll never forget the first-time we met. You asked about my intentions for Dolapo while I was still pouring my first drink in front of yourfriends. I froze! The evening turned out to be Super! I had never met anyone like you, ever! I walked away talking about you for days to everyone. You made some key interventions in our lives, and I’ll never forget. Thank you for everything. Thank you for Dolapo. Thank you for making me feel so welcome. A Great man you’ll always be. We will never forget you. Rest in Peace Eternally Dad.
–Dele, Jason and Joshua Phillips
THEY SAY THE LOVE BETWEEN A DAD AND HIS DAUGHTER IS UNBREAKABLE
I’ve questioned it many times, but I know it’s true. Even though I didn’t spend as much time with you as I hoped, you have been and will always be in my heart. I remember three-year-old me waiting for you to visit as you promised. I waited for hours and hours on end, and when you didn’t turn up, I sat by the front door and created my first song.
“1 love my daddy; what shall I do? I love my daddy; I love him so!” Even as a child, I knew how exemplary you were. I always knew I wanted to be as humble, brilliant, dedicated, committed, hardworking and successful as you were. You were loyal, trustworthy, kind-hearted, dependable, and generous. But most importantly, you were my inspiration. You gave me a reason to dream. You gave me a reason to believe nothing is impossible. You gave me a reason to believe I could excel in anything I put my mind to. Because of you, I give my best in everything, and even when I fall and fail, I’m never scared to get up, try again and succeed. I am not half the person you were, but I hope I made you proud. I will miss you more than you will ever know. Sleep well, Daddy; rest assured that your legacy will live on.
–Omosomi Dokpesi-Igbene, PhD Anutr
TRIBUTE TO DADDY
As I gather my thoughts to write this tribute to one of the greatest men our generation has seen, I am filled with a myriad of emotions and struggling to come to terms with the fact that you are no longer here with us! It still feels like a dream. Are you really gone? But as I stand here grappling with the reality of your absence, I draw strength from the great legacy you left behind.
I remember when I was about 8 years old on one of our trips from Lagos to Yola, driving in the thick of the night, and we were literally driving through a dark forest to find petrol in your Volvo! I was so scared that we would be attacked, but you confidently reassured me there was absolutely nothing to fear, that no one could harm us. With childlike adoration I remember thinking wow this man is fearless! You are indeed a daring man, bold, audacious, undaunted. I could go on and on!
You possessed a rare combination of the all the greatest traits one could ever aspire to have. You were very generous and always showed up in great times of need; you had an unwavering determination, with a tunnel vision to achieve whatever goal you set yourself; you were an independent thinker and fought for whatever you believed in, no matter how controversial. You stood up to great adversity with ease and confidence of a sure victory. You were a man of great intelligence and foresight; and for a man with such great many qualities, you embodied humility, You instilled in me values of compassion, a tireless work ethic and a passion for excellence. I will strive to live with the same values, strength, generosity, doggedness, and unwavering determination that defined your character.
As I reflect on the extraordinary life you led, I want to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU for being an unparalleled role model and for teaching us the great keys to success which you fully embodied and resonates in all your many laudable achievements. I will hold tight to the lessons you taught me. Daddy, you lived, loved and enjoyed life to the fullest. While our time together was brutally cut short and the ache of your loss will forever linger, I find solace in knowing that the impact you had on my life, our family, communities, and the Nigerian political landscape will endure. And I will strive to live a life that honours your remarkable legacy and continues to make you proud. Rest well Daddy.
Your daughter,
–Mrs. Kofo Oduntan
IN LOVING MEMORY OF HIGH CHIEF RAYMOND DOKPESI
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my father-in-law. He was a warm unassuming man who welcomed me with open arms into his family. I will never forget the first time I met High Chief. I was nervous about meeting my future in-laws for the first time, but he put me at ease immediately, pouring me champagne whilst asking me questions about my intentions. At first, I thought it was a test (the alcohol part), but he was so kind and welcoming, I felt like I had known him my whole life. We quickly bonded over our shared love of politics and current affairs. In the few years I have had the privilege of knowing him, we would on occasion spend hours talking about the latest news on which he always had a unique and insightful perspective. He was a true student of history, and he loved to share his knowledge with others. High Chief was a man who appeared to show up for the people he believed in. He was always there for his family and friends, going the extra mile to help them. He was a true inspiration to me, and my only regret is that I didn’t have more time to draw from his extensive wealth of knowledge.
I am so grateful for the little moments shared with you, Sir. You were a wonderful man, and you will be deeply missed. May your memory be a blessing, and may we carry your love, warmth and unwavering spirit with us always. Farewell, High Chief. Rest in eternal peace.
–Rotimi Oduntan
PROCESSING
THIS IS STILL IN MOTION FOR ME
To say nothing almost feels like the right thing to do. In truth, it is too soon to put into words my feelings for you. People are still coming to pay respects to your life a week and days after your passing. Millions of prayers, millions of thanks. If they all dropped one thousand, we could smile to the bank.
Everything I have is from you. Even if I created something of my own entity, it is just a slice of your wit. I can only say I love you right now. I can only say I met people in places far from you that spoke of you in amazement. Processing this is still in motion for me.
You are yet to be buried. I saw you on your last day, I wish I asked more than how you were doing. You know me, short with the words but if you ever needed me to, I would burn down this world. You’re more likely to teach me howto save a life.
You created jobs, promoting the freedom of expression one satellite at a time. It’s funny how they want praise on television but not the scrutiny of their crimes. They took you to trial, you beat them time aftertime. You played fair and in Nigeria, playing fair is a crime.
Wish we had played more. The effects of distance shines through. Thankful we shared moments of love and care when we had the time to. I could keep writing more now but In my truest words, Thank you for Everything. Rest in Peace Daddy.
–Peter Dokpesi
MY EZOMO
On the 29th of May 2023, you departed this world as yourself, practising the virtues you lived by. As much as I miss you, I struggle to let tears run; I hear your voice nudging me to overcome the obstacles and challenges before me.
You lived a life of excellence, commitment and undeterred courage chasing to achieve every interest in the service of not just yourself and those around you but the country across all state lines and the country as a whole.
As an adult, my fondest resonating memory of you was visiting you at the EFCC detention centre; I walked in, and you saw my spirit drop; you looked at me approaching and said, “Mr Paul, there’s no time to feel bad. In every battle, you must stay Dogged and Resilient to fight through every challenge.” I watched you undeterred over a six-year court case you fought cou rageously to victory.
You built me hard and strong, and encouraged me always to strive to be the better version of myself because to you, there was no limit to being a greater upgrade of personal existence.
Being your son was not just a blessing but the ultimate privilege of existence. You remained my ultimate teacher. You taught me to listen, ponder, process and value opinions outside my interest and conviction.
You stood for transparency, tradition and absolute respect for hierarchy with love. I’ll miss our private conversations, quick-witted banter, and pursuit of new interests with expedited precision to fruition.
ADIEU Daddy,
–Aleogho Paul Dokpesi
TO SAY NOTHING ALMOST FEELS LIKE THE RIGHT THING
TO DO
In truth, it is too soon to put into words my feelings for you. People are still coming to pay respects to your life a week and days after your passing. Millions of prayers, millions of thanks. If they all dropped one thousand, we could smile to the bank. Everything I have is from you. Even if I created something of my own entity, it is just a slice of your wit. I can only say I love you right now. I can only say I met people in places farfrom you that spoke of you in amazement.
Processing this is still in motion for me. You are yet to be buried. I saw you on your last day, I wish I asked more than how you were doing. You know me, short with the words but if you ever needed me to, I would burn down this world. You’re more likely to teach me howto save a life. You created jobs, promoting the freedom of expression one satellite at a time. It’s funny how they want praise on television but not the scrutiny of their crimes. They took you to trial, you beat them time after time. You played fair and in Nigeria, playing fair is a crime. Wish we had played more. The effects of distance shines through. Thankful we shared moments of love and care when we had the time to. I could keep writing more now but In my truest words, Thank you for Everything. Rest in Peace Daddy.
–Raji Dokpesi
TO MY BELOVED FATHER
Dear Daddy, I find it heartbreaking that you’ve left me alone like this. We spoke the night before you passee so I’m still in utter shock. However, I find peace knowing you lived life to the fullest and you lived each day like it was your last day. I recall when I turned 10 years old. You woke me up in the middle of the night to wish me happy birthday and told me that you may die soon, but I must always remember a song you taught me that night. You told me that I must always prioritize education and no matter what I must get me master’s degree even if you die. The song (Ipo Ola Dara oo) you taught me when I was 10 year old was very clear: No matter what I must attain success on this earth.
I’m glad you lived to see me get the master’s degree you were so passionate about me obtaining. I’m blessed you lived long enough to tell me you were proud of my achievements. During our last conversation, we were discussing the Dangote Refinery Commissioning and you asked why I didn’t attend the event since I am in the oil and gas industry. I responded saying only the ‘big ogas’ went. The last thing you said to me was “very soon you’ll be a big and prominent girl too and would be invited to such events”. In 2020, we were diagnosed with covid-19 and we spent 3 weeks in the Gwagwalada Isolatior Centre in Abuja. I remember rushing into your room intermittently on our first night there
because I was so worried covid would take you away from me. You told me to sit in your cubicle with you and assured me that we would beat Covid-19, which we eventually recovered from. You were a source of courage, fearlessness, motivation and wisdom. To me, you were not just my father but a counsellor, advisor, confidante and most importantly my friend. My sugar, like I fondly called you. I appreciate you for all you’ve done for me and how mud you’ve inspired me. You were many things to many people, a hero, a patriot, a boss, a rnentor but I was privileged to call you daddy. Rest well daddy. I’ll love you forever. Your beloved daughter,
–Engr. Halima V.M. Dokpesi
TRIBUTE TO MY DAD
My father was a kind, compassionate, and loving person who touched the lives of so many people. As a father, he was always there for me and family, providing guidance, support, and unconditional love. He worked tirelessly to give us the best possible upbringing and to instill in us the values that he held dear.
His passion for life and his infectious smile were a source of joy to all who knew him. He had a way of making everyone feel at ease and of brightening up even the darkest of days with his humor and warmth. My father’s legacy will live on through the memories and lessons he imparted to us and all those whose I ives he touched. Thank you daddy, for the gift of life and for the love that you shared with your family and friends. You will be deeply missed, but your memory will live on forever in our hearts.
–Anthonia Dokpesi
TRIBUTE TO MY DAD HIGH CHIEF RAYMOND ALEOGHO DOKPESI
My dad was a father I was proud of, a father i would tell all my friends about, a father I loved from the bottom of my heart. The loveliest and kindest father. Getting on his angry side was a no go though. I remember when I once got on his bad side during new year celebration and I can still feel the pain from my punishment. Its the memories like these i love to remember. They make me do the right things all the time.
The good ones and the not so good ones because nothing could ever be bad with my dad. He was my hero, my everything, the only man id always take instructions from. gladly 1m always proud of my dad because he helped so many people, some without realising, he’s everyone’s favorite person, he can make you laugh, smile, grin, filled with joy. He was a man of wisdom, courage and dedication. He was a hardworking man, he was my father ….. Daddy Although I wont have you walk down the aisle with me on my wedding day in
person, I know you’ll always be there with me in spirit .,. I hope youre watching over me up there. I love you so much daddy, I’ll will alway make you proud in all I do by the grace of God.
Your Princess,
–Catherine Anuoluwapo Oshioneh Dokpesi
