The Director General of the Labour Party’s Directorate of Mobilization and Integration, Marcel Ngogbehei, has said that internal wrangling over campaign funds frustrated the efforts of the late Dr. Doyin Okupe in stabilising the party during the 2023 presidential election.
In a statement mourning Okupe’s passing, Ngogbehei described him as a statesman, political strategist, and advocate for national unity, whose contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution remain indelible.
Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson, reportedly died in a private hospital in Lagos on March 7, 2025.
He was a former Director-General of the LP Presidential Campaign Council in the 2023 election.
Ngogbehei noted that Okupe played a vital role in the evolution of Nigeria’s democracy, saying he was a voice of reason in critical moments and took a stand without fear or favour.
According to him, one of Okupe’s most notable contributions in recent years was his role in the early stages of the Peter Obi presidential campaign and the rise of the Obidient Movement in 2022.
Ngogbehei recalled that, serving as the interim vice-presidential candidate, Okupe later stepped aside when a final selection was made, demonstrating his commitment to the cause over personal ambition.
“As internal conflicts threatened the unity of the movement, Dr. Okupe stepped in as a mediator, ensuring stability and preventing what was described as an attempted power grab by certain individuals.
“Despite facing disrespect from some quarters, he maintained composure, choosing to educate and counsel rather than retaliate,” the statement said.
Ngogbehei recounted a personal encounter with the LP ex-campaign DG after the 2022 Labour Party/Obidient Movement Leadership Summit, where the late politician took a keen interest in grassroots mobilisation.
“That night, he personally called for me and some of our members. He wanted a database of at least 10 Obidients per polling unit in key states.
He was ready to fund it because he believed in the movement,” Ngogbehei said.
However, he lamented that internal struggles for control over campaign funds led to betrayals that frustrated Okupe’s efforts.
“Beyond his role in the Labour Party, Dr. Okupe was a staunch advocate for a more inclusive Nigeria, championing the cause of the Southeast in the quest for the presidency. He firmly believed in equity and stood by Peter Obi, whom he considered the most competent candidate.
“A mentor to many young politicians, Dr. Okupe was passionate about youth empowerment, urging the next generation to take an active role in governance. His belief that Nigeria’s future rested in the hands of the youth earned him deep respect across the political spectrum.
“During the 2023 elections, he remained steadfast in his fight for justice and fairness, rejecting tribal politics and calling for national unity. His unwavering stance in the face of opposition cemented his legacy as a leader who placed the country above personal or political gain.
“As we bid him farewell, we celebrate a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of a better Nigeria. His voice may be silent now, but his impact will continue to inspire generations,” Ngogbehei added.
