By Ken Afor
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), in reaction to the death of Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, a widely celebrated unionist and pro-democracy fighter, said he died in the latter stages of his life dealing with the severe traumas incurred from his pro-democracy struggles.
Chief Kokori died in the early hours of Thursday, aged 80.
A statement issued by NUPENG’s President and General Secretary, Prince Williams Akporeha and Afolabi Olawale, respectively, stated that Chief Kokori was committed to safeguarding the rights of employees and upholding the democratic rights of citizens.
The statement read: “The leadership of our great Union, on behalf of the entire members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), wishes to announce the news of the passing to eternal resting abode of our former distinguished General Secretary, Comrade Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, who passed away ini the early hours of Thursday 7th December, 2023.
“Late Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori was a well-known, committed and dedicated defender, promoter and fighter for workers’ rights and democratic rights of the citizens.
“He spent a life of sacrifice to the struggles for emancipation of the working class globally and enthronement of democratic rule in Nigeria.
“He spent years in prisons and was severely brutalized in his struggles for not only the Trade Unions but in the struggles against military rule in Nigeria.
“His later years were spent nursing some of the vicious wounds inflicted on him in the course of those struggles.
Yet, like the great warrior that he was, he still lived up to a good age before he eventually surrendered to go home for a peaceful rest after those struggles for humanity.
“We love Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori but as humans, we have to take consolation in the great and wonderful memories he left behind for us to cherish and celebrate.
“We write to express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the families and loved ones of the late elder statesman.
“While the entire NUPENG family mourns the loss of a great labour icon, we also celebrate his remarkable life where he contributed to our collective struggles for the emancipation of the working people for greater good to all and sundry.
“Late Frank Ovie Kokori was also a beacon of democratic struggles in Nigeria, and he remained an advocate of democracy throughout his life.
“We take solace in the knowledge that Chief Frank Kokori has gone to be with his Maker and he is surely resting in the bosom of the Almighty God. May the soul of Chief Frank Kokori rest in peace.”
It would be recalled tha Chief Kokori, who was the former General Secretary of NUPENG was one of the prominent voices that stood against the annulment of June 12, 1993 presidential election.
The octogenarian died shortly after he was diagnosed with a kidney ailment.
