The family of the late labour leader and pro-democracy stalwart, Frank Ovie Kokori, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for posthumously conferring the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) national honour on their patriarch, describing it as a significant and commendable step in recognising heroes of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

In a statement signed by Kive Kokori, son of the late activist, and made available to journalists in Asaba, Delta State, the family described the honour as an overdue acknowledgement of Kokori’s pivotal role in the historic June 12, 1993, struggle for democracy.

“While we deeply appreciate the President’s resolve to honour the sacrifices of Nigeria’s democratic heroes, we believe our father’s contribution warrants even greater recognition.

“Kokori’s unwavering stance during the darkest days of military dictatorship was not only courageous but came at a tremendous personal cost,” the statement read.

As the General Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Frank Kokori led a nationwide strike that brought the country’s vital oil sector to a standstill in protest against the annulment of the 1993 presidential election won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola.

The statement added: “Even President Tinubu, in his tribute, referred to him as a brother and comrade-in-struggle.”

We believe the CON award, though appreciated, does not fully reflect the depth of his national impact.”

The family has therefore called on Tinubu to consider an upgrade of the honour, ideally to the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), or at least the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), consistent with honours previously accorded to leaders of comparable significance in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

Additionally, they advocated for the naming of a national institution or monument after Frank Kokori to enshrine his legacy and inspire future generations.