Nigerians Bid Farewell to NUPENG former General Secretary, Late Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori
Friday 8th March, 2024
Funeral Rites Held in Grand Style in Ovu-inland, Ethiope East LGA, Delta State.
In a show of solidarity and deep reverence, Nigerians from all walks of life gathered at the country home of the late Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori in Ovu-inland, Ethiope East LGA Delta State, to pay their final respects to the former General Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
Leading the NUPENG delegation was Comrade Williams Akporeha, President of NUPENG, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, General Secretary of the Union, alongside the NUPENG National Executive Council (NEC), NUPENG Elders, NUPENG Branch Chairmen/Secretaries, rank and file, and staff of the Union.
His Excellency Rt.Hon. Sheriff Francis O. Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State led the Delta State delegation ably supported by Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker, DSHA.
Also in attendance was Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) and leader of the Federal Government delegation to the funeral.
The ceremony, reminiscent of a carnival, sought to honour the illustrious career and immense contributions of the late Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori to the Labour Movement, pro-democracy activism, politics and humanity.
The event commenced with a somber funeral church service at St. James Anglican Church, Oviore-Ovu, Ethiope East LGA, Delta State. Immediately after the funeral church service, the late labour icon was interred at his residence 20, Odukuma Street, Ovu-Inland, Ethiope East LGA, Delta State.
Mourners were hosted to a reception/entertainment at Ovu Grammar school- Ovu-Inland, were they reflected on the extraordinary life and legacy of Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori, whose unwavering dedication to the rights and welfare of workers has left an indelible impact on the Nigerian labour landscape.
Among the dignitaries present at the reception were the family of the late elder statesman, representatives of the NNPCL, NEPL, NMDPRA, NUPRC, NLC, PENGASSAN, Traditional rulers and captains of industry were also in attendance, symbolizing the wide-ranging influence and respect that Comrade Frank Ovie Kokori enjoyed across various sectors.
Comrade Kokori’s passing marks the end of an era and leaves a void in Nigeria’s labour movement that will be challenging to fill. However, his advocacy for justice, equity, and the rights of workers will continue to inspire future generations of union leaders and activists to fight for a fair and inclusive society.
As Nigerians bid a final farewell to Comrade Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, his memory will forever remain a source of inspiration and a reminder of the significant strides that can be achieved through unwavering commitment to a cause. May his soul rest in eternal peace with the Lord.
