The family of the late labour icon and democracy activist, Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori, wishes to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for posthumously conferring the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) honour on their patriarch in recognition of his role in the historic June 12, 1993 pro-democracy struggle.
We see this gesture as an important and commendable step toward correcting a long-standing national oversight, and we deeply appreciate the President’s resolve in ensuring that the heroes of Nigeria’s democracy are not forgotten.
However, with great humility and in the spirit of justice and historical clarity, the Kokori family appeals to President Tinubu to further elevate this recognition to more appropriately reflect Comrade Kokori’s extraordinary and unmatched contributions to the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
As General Secretary of NUPENG during the dark era of military dictatorship, Frank Kokori led the most consequential national oil workers’ strike in Nigerian history, which effectively crippled oil production and export—the nation’s economic lifeline—in protest against the annulment of the June 12 elections won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola. This singular act of resistance was unprecedented in scale and consequence, earning him a brutal abduction and nearly four years of incarceration, largely in solitary confinement, under some of the most inhumane prison conditions in Bama, Borno State.
Despite threats, inducements, and unimaginable hardship to his family, he remained unbending in his principles, refusing to capitulate or trade his convictions for personal gain. Even when a high-ranking position in government and a blank cheque was offered to him by the Abacha government as an appeasement, he declined, choosing integrity over convenience—a path few dared to take. Many who stood in the same moment later accepted appointments or changed sides; he did not.
While we do not seek to diminish the contributions of other patriots in the June 12 struggle, Comrade Kokori’s role was singular in its courage, consequence, and cost. He stood out, not only for what he fought for, but for what he endured. This is not just a family sentiment—it is a truth borne out by history.
Indeed, Mr. President himself referred to Frank Kokori as a brother and comrade-in-struggle in his tribute to him, and eulogized him after his passing. It is our belief that, in light of that intimate understanding of his sacrifices, the CON award, while appreciated, does not sufficiently reflect the weight of his national impact.
Therefore, we respectfully appeal to President Tinubu and the Nigerian government to reassess and upgrade the honour accorded to Frank Kokori—ideally to the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) or at minimum, Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR)—in alignment with the precedent set for other leaders of similar impact.
Furthermore, we advocate for the naming of a national monument or institution after Frank Kokori to enshrine his name in public memory and inspire future generations. Such an act would serve not only as a gesture of gratitude but as a national statement that integrity, sacrifice, and courage still matter in Nigeria.
Though he did not receive these recognition during his lifetime, it is never too late to do what is right. We thank President Tinubu for his leadership, and we trust that—as a man who himself paid a steep price for democracy—he will rise to the occasion in correctly honouring one of its most unsung but indispensable warriors.
E-Signed
Kive Kokori
