By John Moses
The family of the late Nigerian labour leader and pro-democracy icon, Chief Frank Kokori, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for bestowing a posthumous national honour on their patriarch. However, they have also appealed for a more fitting recognition that reflects his unparalleled contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
In a statement signed by Mr Kive Kokori and made available to journalists in Warri on Monday, the family welcomed the award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) to their father. While appreciative, they argued that the distinction does not fully capture the historical significance of his sacrifices.
“We commend President Tinubu for recognising our father’s legacy. Yet, we humbly request that this honour be elevated to the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) or, at the very least, the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), in keeping with the precedence granted to others of similar influence,” the statement read.
The family also urged the Federal Government to consider naming a national monument or institution after Chief Kokori to permanently enshrine his legacy in the public consciousness.
Chief Kokori, a central figure in the June 12, 1993, pro-democracy struggle, led a historic oil workers’ strike during his tenure as General Secretary of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), paralysing Nigeria’s oil sector in protest against the annulled presidential election.
For his defiance, he was abducted and spent nearly four years in harsh detention under the Abacha regime. Despite offers of political positions and material inducement, he remained unwavering in his principles, the family noted.
President Tinubu, in his tribute following Kokori’s passing in 2023 at the age of 79, referred to him as a brother and comrade in the democratic struggle. The family has now called on the President to ensure Kokori’s legacy is adequately reflected in Nigeria’s national narrative.
