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Renowned leader and influential figure, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu CFR OFR MFR, AHAEJIAGAMBA NDIGBO who currently holds the esteemed position of President General at Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, led a significant delegation representing the entire Igbo Nation on a poignant condolence visit. The purpose of this visit was to express heartfelt sympathies to the grieving family of the late media titan, High Chief Raymond Anthony Aleogho Dokpesi, whose untimely demise occurred on the 29th of May.
In a moving tribute, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu passionately extolled the remarkable life and accomplishments of Raymond Dokpesi. With great reverence, he acknowledged the profound impact that Dokpesi had made throughout his lifetime. Furthermore, he affirmed the enduring bond that had been forged between the late media czar and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, promising to uphold and nurture this cherished relationship going forward.
The visit, laden with solemnity, served as a testament to the deep sense of loss felt by the entire Igbo community. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu’s presence and heartfelt words provided solace to the grieving family, assuring them that the memory and legacy of High Chief Raymond Anthony Aleogho Dokpesi would forever be etched in the collective consciousness of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
Chief Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu PG Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwidw, signs the condolence register at late Chief Raymond’s residence at Asokoro, Abuja while Chief Simon Okeke(left) looks on.
HIS WORDS:
“Today, we gather here with heavy hearts to pay our respects and offer our condolences to the family of a remarkable man, High Chief Raymond Dokpesi. His untimely departure has left a void that cannot easily be filled. Personally, I mourn the loss of a dear friend, someone who transcended tribal boundaries and consistently demonstrated respect and affection towards me. High Chief Raymond Dokpesi was a true Nigerian, embracing the values of unity and inclusivity.
It is not without significance that we, the Igbo nation, have come together on this solemn occasion. Such visits are reserved for moments of great magnitude, and today, we stand united in our purpose. As the leader of the global Igbo Nation, I am accompanied by esteemed Igbo leaders from various spheres—representatives from our traditional institutions, the youth, and the revered Chief Simon Okeke, an elder of immense stature. We, the Igbo people, move with purpose and determination when a great figure is called by the ancestors, for it signifies the fall of a mighty tree within our community.
High powered Ohanaeze Ndigbo delegate who accompanied the PG Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide on a condolence visit to the family of High Chief Raymond Dokpesi
Raymond Dokpesi, both in life and now in memory, embodies greatness. While his passing brings us sorrow, we find solace in his extraordinary achievements. As the pioneer of the first privately owned television and radio stations in Nigeria, he paved the way for a new era of media ownership. Initially deemed an impossible feat, he shattered those barriers and etched his name in the annals of Nigerian history. Raymond Dokpesi’s impact on the communications landscape will forever be acknowledged and revered. His accomplishments shall forever be remembered whenever the story of Nigerian communication is told.
Chief Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu(c), late Chief Raymond Dokpesi wife(l), Chief Simon Okeke(r)
Moreover, Raymond Dokpesi’s benevolent nature was exemplary. His acts of kindness towards the sick, the poor, and the needy epitomize the selflessness we should all strive for. Surely, his virtuous deeds shall not go unrewarded, for the blessings of the divine are upon him.
Today, I stand before you as a representative of the global Igbo community. The words I speak resonate with the sentiments of every Igbo individual, wherever they may be. We wish to convey our unwavering support to the bereaved family and the entire DAAR Communication family. In times of need, we shall rally behind them, offering our assistance and standing as a pillar of strength.
Raymond Dokpesi believed in the unity of Nigeria, envisioning a nation where equity reigns supreme. He sought a Nigeria where everyone would feel a sense of belonging, free from the shackles of oppression. This noble vision compelled him to establish media outlets that would champion the cause of the less privileged and oppressed. In doing so, he left an indelible mark and inspired others to follow in his footsteps. Raymond Dokpesi was the catalyst, the first to ignite the fire of change.
Within the southeast region, we mourn the loss of a partner in the fight for a just and equitable Nigeria. We desire a united Nigeria, but not at the expense of our Igbo brethren being treated as second-class citizens. We envision a Nigeria where everyone is afforded their rightful share, their fundamental rights guaranteed. Our intentions are not to hinder the progress of any other group, but to ensure that fairness and justice prevail. Raymond Dokpesi embraced this cause and extended his unwavering support towards us.
Raymond held great affection for our people. Even in instances when we faced injustice, he stood by our side, supporting us when others would turn a blind eye. I implore the media to convey this message to all Nigerians—the individuals who claim to champion the idea of a united Nigeria pose the greatest threat to its realization. It is not IPOB, it is not OPC; it is those who seek to undermine the innocent. In 1914, when Lord Lugard amalgamated Nigeria, Richard came and divided it into three regions: North, South, and West. At that time, we were assured that the Igbo people could settle anywhere, engage in business, acquire properties, and thrive. And indeed, the Igbo people ventured far and wide, including Lagos, where their entrepreneurial spirit transformed the landscape.
Yet, those who oppose the progress made by those who came to Lagos lawfully and developed the land are the true enemies of this country. They harbor ill will and obstruct the peace and unity we strive for. Regrettably, it appears that the government has chosen not to address this matter adequately. Raymond Dokpesi fought tirelessly against such injustices, and we sorely miss his presence. I earnestly hope that AIT, the media outlet he founded, will continue to champion this cause for equality. Our desire is not to cheat anyone; we simply seek fairness. We have exhibited immense patience, and our contributions to the GDP of this country are unparalleled. Wherever you go, you will find the imprint of our businesses, homes, and properties. Raymond’s battle was just, and we remain resolute in our commitment to it. I beseech all Nigerians, even in Raymond’s absence, to ensure that AIT never falters in its pursuit of justice.
To the family of Raymond Dokpesi and the entire DAAR Communication family, please be assured that we shall remain as devoted as we were to Raymond himself. AIT belonged to Raymond, but he selflessly shared it with all of us. If anyone were to harm or undermine AIT, the Igbo people would rise up in defense, for Raymond fought for us whenever we faced adversity.
Raymond Dokpesi was a devout Catholic and a true Christian. May God receive his soul into the eternal embrace of heaven.
Thank you, and may Raymond’s legacy continue to inspire us all”.
Raymond Jr.(c) on black appreciates the visit of the Ohanaeze delegate
In a heartwarming display of solidarity and respect, the illustrious tribute paid to Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu has deeply touched the family of the late Chief Raymond. Graciously embracing the gesture, the family wholeheartedly welcomed the revered members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, expressing profound gratitude for their visit and acknowledging the Igbo nation’s unwavering support.
Raymond Jr., the son of the late Chief Raymond, eloquently conveyed the family’s overwhelming joy in response to the visit. He conveyed his heartfelt appreciation, assuring the Igbo nation that the enduring bond forged between his father and the entire Igbo community will continue to thrive and prosper, undeterred by the passage of time.
SKJ