The family of late Nigerian trade unionist and democracy advocate, Chief Frank Kokori, has thanked President Bola Tinubu for awarding him the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) posthumously, but says more should be done to honour his legacy.
In a public statement signed by Kive Kokori and shared with media on Monday, the family described the award as a “commendable step” towards correcting past neglect but urged the president to consider a higher honour.
“We respectfully request that the recognition be upgraded to Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) or, at a minimum, Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), given the depth of his contributions,” the family said.
They also called on the Federal Government to immortalise Chief Kokori by naming a national institution or public landmark in his honour, stating that such a gesture would reinforce the values of courage and integrity in public service.
Chief Kokori played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s fight for democracy, particularly during the annulled June 12, 1993 elections. As the then General Secretary of NUPENG, he led a nationwide strike that severely disrupted oil production – a rare and bold stand against the military regime.
He was subsequently abducted by the government and endured nearly four years of incarceration in brutal prison conditions. The family said he refused offers of political appointments and material benefits from the Abacha regime, choosing to uphold his beliefs.
“His resistance was not only heroic but came at a personal cost. His name deserves to be remembered alongside Nigeria’s greatest patriots,” the family added.
Chief Kokori died in 2023 at the age of 79. The family concluded by expressing faith in President Tinubu’s commitment to honouring the unsung heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
