PUNCH reports that erstwhile General Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, Chief Frank Kokori who was hospitalized over kidney-related ailment for the past month is dead.

He passed away at a private hospital in Warri around 1.30 am Thursday December 7, 2023, which coincides, with his birthday. He died at 80. This was disclosed by his personal Assistant, Atawada   to Journalist early today, noting that his health relapsed on Monday when he was unable to interact with people around him while he was placed on life support. It was reported that he made a distress call from his hospital bed over his health status on Thursday November 9, 2023 lamenting that he had been neglected and abandoned to die in spite of his huge contribution to the democratic growth of the country. Consequently, the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori , former Deputy President of the senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, officials of NUPENG among other dignitaries visited him

Frank Kokori was a pivotal figure in the struggle for the validation of the annulled June 12 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola. The annulment was during President Ibrahim Babangida causing outrage and protests across the country. Frank Kokori led NUPENG and the Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) in organizing nationwide strikes that crippled the oil industry, which is the country’s lifeblood. Kokori also actively involved in pro-democracy activities. He participated in various rallies and demonstrators, calling for the enthronement of democracy and recognition of Abiola’s victory. He played a crucial role in building alliances with other pro-democracy groups and individuals, fostering unity and a common front against the military regime.

Kokori was arrested and detained by the military government and tortured and imprisoned, despite the hardship he remained understeered and continued to advocate for democracy and the ideals he believed. He earned widespread respect and admiration solidifying his status as a hero in the fight for June 12.