
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed shock over the death of Chief Alegho Raymond Dokpesi, the Founder of DAAR Communications Plc.
National President of NUJ, Chris Isiguzo, in a statement in Abuja described Dokpesi as a National Icon and Media Entrepreneur whose footprint in the broadcast media will remain indelible.
Dokpesi died on Monday, at the age of 71 years.
“A Media Mogul, whom despite the difficult terrain in which the media operates in the country and the undue pressure and harassment from State Actors, had stood firmly in support of a free and independent media and resisted any attempt by politicians and government toward increased control of the media and harassment of Journalists.
“Chief Dokpesi who had devoted the greater part of his life to fighting for media development, especially the private broadcast industry which he pioneered in the country, was a completely detribalized Nigerian whose forthrightness, and doggedness remain outstanding.
“A patriotic citizen, he remained consistent and refused to be dragged into issues he never believed in, even when he was subjected to political intimidation and harassment,” Isiguzo said in the statement.
The NUJ called on Journalists in the country to “promote Development Journalism and continue to exhibit the highest professional and ethical standards as the best way to immortalize Chief Dokpesi. ”
Isiguzo said the media industry will miss Dokpesi’s great sense of humor and his tireless pursuit of excellence in the profession of journalism.