Labour leaders across the country are paying glowing tributes to former General Secretary, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) workers, Chief Frank Kokori who died in the early hours of Thursday aged 80 years.
The labour leaders in separate interviews in Lagos recalled the contributions of the late unionist to the democratic struggle in Nigeria, while also extending their condolences to the bereaved family.
President of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, Mr. Tommy Okon, said Kokori’s death was very painful, especially in the present time when the labour movement when his wise counsel on labour issues was most needed.
Okon is also the Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria.
“The trade union movement will miss him seriously, but his contributions to the growth and development of the trade union movement in the country can never be forgotten.
“Let me use this medium to extend my condolences to the family and the trade union movement, in particular the NUPENG family, for the loss.
“Also, I pray for the repose of the soul of the erstwhile General Secretary of NUPENG, Chief Frank Kokori; may his soul rest peacefully, “ he said.
Also, Programme Manager, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, a Civil Society Organisation, Mr. Okeke Anya, described Kokori’s death as very sad one.
“Chief Frank Kokori was not only a great labour leader, but also a great patriot, who fought for the entrenchment of democracy in the country.
“We console the family and pray that his soul rests with the Almighty, “ Anya said.
Earlier, NUPENG, in a statement, said that Kokori was a well-known committed, dedicated defender, promoter and fighter for workers and the democratic rights of the citizens.
The statement, signed by NUPENG’s President, Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Mr. Olawale Afolabi, also described the late Kokori as a beacon of democratic struggles in Nigeria.
According to the duo, he remained an advocate of democracy throughout his life.
“He spent a life of “Sacrifice” to struggle for the emancipation of the working class globally and the enthronement of democratic rule in Nigeria.
“He spent years in prisons and was brutalized in his struggles for not only the trade unions but in the struggles against military rule in Nigeria.
“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,” the leaders said.
-NAN