The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has issued a directive for the Union and National flags to be flown at half-mast for seven days, commencing from today, Thursday, as a mark of respect for its former General Secretary, Chief Ovie Frank Kokori. This announcement was made by NUPENG’s President, Prince Williams Akporeha, who further conveyed that condolence registers would be made available across all NUPENG zonal council secretariats throughout the country and at the union’s Abuja liaison office.
The decision to lower the flags is a somber acknowledgment of the passing of Chief Ovie Frank Kokori, who breathed his last at 80 in the early hours of today. NUPENG, in its official statement by President Prince Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale, described Kokori as a stalwart unionist and pro-democracy advocate. The union recognized his unwavering commitment to defending workers’ rights and democratic principles, highlighting that he endured substantial personal sacrifices during his tireless struggles.
Late Chief Ovie Frank Kokori’s legacy extends beyond his role as a former General Secretary, as he was known for his significant contributions to the global labor movement. His life was marked by dedication to the emancipation of the working class globally, coupled with his relentless pursuit of democratic governance in Nigeria. The statement emphasized that Kokori, throughout his activism, endured imprisonment and faced brutalization in his quest not only for the rights of trade unions but also in the broader struggle against military rule in Nigeria.
NUPENG expressed deep condolences to the family of Chief Ovie Frank Kokori and the broader community that mourns his passing. The union affirmed that his impactful contributions would be remembered and celebrated within the labor movement and the larger context of Nigeria’s democratic history. The decision to fly the flags at half-mast serves as a symbolic gesture, reflecting the profound loss felt by NUPENG and the wider community due to the passing of a distinguished leader and advocate for workers’ rights.
