President Bola Tinubu and Delta State governor Sheriff Oborevwori, said the death of former General Secretary of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers of Nigeria, NUPENG, Frank Ovie Kokori, was a big loss to the nation.
Chief Kokori was one of the Nigerians who fought the military to restore democratic order in the country. He played an active role during the struggle against the annulment of the June 12 1993 elections believed to have been won by late Moshood Abiola. Kokori was detained several times by the military regime of Ibrahim Babaginda and Sanni Abacha.
He died at 80 after a long battle with kidney disease in a Warri hospital Thursday.
“I have just received with shock, news of the passing of one of Nigeria’s greatest statesmen, Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, a Deltan of unparalleled patriotism,” governor Oborevworie said through his press secretary, Festus Ahon.
“I am saddened that at a time like this when his patriotic zeal is needed in our dear nation, Nigeria, death came calling. I will forever cherish our last moments together when l visited him in the hospital. He was ebullient and was in very high spirits despite his ailment. He fought a good fight.
“I send my heartfelt condolences to the family, the Urhobo nation, NUPENG, APC, Deltans and Ovu community in particular over the passing of the renowned elder statesman and labour icon.
“As a bastion of inspiration, labour icon and a man of great political depth and insight as well as a leader of leaders, he contributed immensely to the development of our state and country throughout his lifetime.”
Tinubu in his condolence message said: “Frank Kokori was a thoroughbred democrat and activist. He fought for democracy at a great personal cost. He surrendered his liberty to fight for truth and justice. He was the finest among reformers and champions of civil rights in Nigeria.
“He was a brother in the June 12 struggle. He was uncompromising, unbending, and irrepressible. He was an exemplary comrade.”
