NGE Mourns Dokpesi, Says Strong Advocate of Press Freedom Is Gone

The Nigerian Guild of Editors said it is saddened over the sudden passage of the Chairman of Daar Communications Ltd, owner of AIT and Raypower 100.5FM, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi, recently.

In a statement by its President, Mustapha Isah and the General Secretary, Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the platform of all the editors in Nigeria, described Dokpesi as a disruptive innovator in the broadcast industry, who worked very hard and firmly to promote independent press, freedom of the press and access to information.

“High Chief Dokpesi played a strategic role in the liberalization of broadcast industry in Nigeria, with his establishment of the first private radio station, Raypower 100.5FM, in Nigeria.

“An employer of many editors and hundreds of other journalists in Nigeria, he firmly used his media outfits to deepen democracy and raise the voice of the voiceless in our country.

“High Chief Dokpesi was a strong advocate of press freedom and independent press. The NGE worked closely with him during several attempts by the National

Assembly to pass anti-media laws and his voice was very loud”, the NGE stated

A caring father, visionary leader with big ideas, media mogul and philanthropist, High Chief Dokpesi made a huge impact in the media industry, and unforgettable memories in the hearts of millions of people across the country.

The NGE added, “From several testimonies of his employees, the founder of Daar Communications Ltd treated his staff members and everyone who crossed his path with love and respect, always ready to listen and give useful advice when needed.

“He was so kind to many so much so that the life journeys of many journalists will not be complete without mentioning Dokpesi.”

While expressing its heartfelt condolences to the Dokpesi family and the entire DAAR Communications family, the NGE said that if the earth that will cover Dokpesi will be light, it is because he represented humanity and excellent services to many and his country.

For: Nigerian Guild of Editors Iyoobosa Uwugiaren, PhD General Secretary

From David Hassan, Gombe

Gombe state governor Muhammadu Inuwa

Yahaya has called on the oppotion to throw away their grievances and join his government in order to build the state.

The governor stated this on Monday in Gombe after taking oath of office alongside his deputy Mr. Manassah Daniel Jatau for second tenure at the Pantami stadium.

He assured citizens of transparent government even as he said his administration will continue to wax stronger in nation building. According to him, “elections have come and gone, let join hands together in putting the state first”. While appreciating the people for his re-election for the second term, governor Yahaya said creation of jobs, infrastructural development, agriculture, Health and education remain his piority. Speaking further, he said “we might have lost stakeholders and supporters within the party in the last four years, but let us pray for their eternal rest.