Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, a renowned activist, elder statesman, and former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), has passed away. The veteran leader breathed his last in the early hours of Thursday, December 7, coincidentally on his 80th birthday, at Mount Horeb Hospital in Warri, Delta State, where he had been undergoing treatment.
Chief Kokori’s health had reportedly deteriorated over the past week, and he had been placed on oxygen until his demise. The news of his death was confirmed by his Personal Assistant, Mr. Oke Barry.
The former labour leader had been vocal about his neglect and abandonment in the weeks leading up to his passing. On November 9, 2023, Kokori, from his hospital bed, expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of attention despite his significant contributions to the democratic growth of Nigeria.
In his distressed call, Kokori highlighted his pivotal role in the country’s struggles for democracy, emphasizing his selfless dedication even during four years of imprisonment. He lamented the state of the nation and reiterated his commitment to the fight for democracy.
Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, an Urhobo from Ovu town in Agbon Kingdom, Delta State, had been battling a kidney-related ailment and had been receiving treatment at Mount Horeb Clinic in Warri since early November. Despite his health challenges, Kokori remained an influential figure and a founding chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian activism and labor leadership.
