How bombing of hospital treating Okupe for terminal cancer fast-tracked his death – Omokri

Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has claimed that Doyin Okupe’s death on Friday could have been delayed if the hospital treating him for terminal cancer in Israel had not been bombed during the ongoing Gaza conflict.

ThisDay Nigeria reports that Okupe, who previously served as an aide to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, passed away in Lagos.

Amid various speculations surrounding Okupe’s death, Omokri took to Facebook on Saturday to caution against spreading falsehoods and disrespecting the late politician’s memory.

He wrote: “I want to appeal to those mocking the death of Dr. Doyin Okupe as some kind of divine retribution for his so-called ‘sins’ against them and or their heroes, to understand some things.

“Dr. Doyin Okupe was my friend and colleague. He had a terminal cancer diagnosis and knew that he was going to die. His death is sad, but it is not a surprise.

“He was in Israel receiving terminal cancer treatment until the crisis with Gaza occurred, and the hospital where he was being treated got bombed. Thereafter, he returned to Nigeria. But for the Gaza incident, he would have remained in Israel.”

Omokri also emphasized Okupe’s dedication to Nigeria, saying his resilience despite his diagnosis.

“Despite his diagnosis, he continues to work as a patriot, giving his all to Nigeria. Thus, I find it despicable and hurtful to his memory for individuals to keep mocking him, saying that he passed on before them or that he will never rest in peace.

“Dr. Doyin Okupe and I were in close communication until he died. He was a courageous man. He did not commit any sin against Peter Obi. Many of you now attacking him may not be able to bravely face life and continue working and smiling as if nothing was wrong with you after a doctor has informed you that you would die. But he did it. Please let him rest in peace.

Omokri concluded his message with a call for empathy and respect for the deceased.

“The man is dead. You and I will also die. He lived a good life. However, if you disagree, then leave him for God to Judge.

“Thanks, and may God bless you all.”