…Says strong advocate of private, independent broadcast media press freedom is gone
Executive Chairman, ATAR Communications Nigeria Ltd, Owner of Liberty TV and Radio FM Stations, Alhaji (Dr.) Ahmed Tijjani Ramalan, has said he is saddened over the sudden passage of the Chairman Emeritus of Daar Communications Ltd., owner of AIT and Raypower 10FM, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi.
In a condolence visit to the family, Alhaji (Dr) Ahmed Tijjani Ramalan described Dokpesi as the pioneer of the private and independent broadcast stations in Nigeria, who worked very hard and firmly to promote an independent press, freedom of the press and access to information.
According to him, “Dokpesi played a strategic pioneer role in the liberalisation of broadcast industry in Nigeria, with his establishment of the first private and independent radio station, Raypower 100.5FM, in Nigeria.
“He firmly used his media outfits to romote democracy, Good Governance and raise the voice of the voiceless in our country especially during the aborted third of Obasanjo Regime
“Dokpesi was a detribalized Nigerian, Maritime Guru and a politician of the people. I worked closely with him during the National Republican Convention (NRC) days and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as Director, Special Duties when he was the Director-General of Peter Odili and later General Babangida Presidential campaigns organisations.
“A caring father, visionary leader with big ideas, Shipping, Media mogul and philanthropist, Dokpesi made a huge impact in the Shipping media industry, and has left unforgettable memories in the hearts of millions of politicians people across the country.
“He was so kind to many; so much so that the life journeys of many Media Owners like me and journalists will not be complete without mentioning Dokpesi”.
While expressing his heartfelt condolences to the Dokpesi family and the entire DAAR Communications family, the Liberty TV and Radio FM Stations Chairman said if the earth that will cover Dokpesi will be light, it is because he represented humanity and excellent services to many and his country.
