Ogwashi-Uku community in Delta State is mourning the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organization Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who died at 96.
The people of Ogwashi-Uku community in Delta State are mourning the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
The renowned sociologist and mother of Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II, the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, died on Friday at the age of 96.
She was the wife of the late Obi Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of the community, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
Her death was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Palace Secretary, Chief Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, on behalf of the royal family.
The statement described the late Professor Okonjo as an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.
“An internationally recognised and foremost sociologist, Prof. Kamene Okonjo distinguished herself through her outstanding academic accomplishments, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment,” the statement said.
It added that despite her exceptional intellect and professional accomplishments, she remained humble, gentle and gracious, earning the admiration of those who encountered her.
According to the royal family, her achievements extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her recognition and respect within international academic and intellectual circles.
The statement described her as an embodiment of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society.
Beyond her academic contributions, Professor Okonjo was celebrated as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a cherished pillar of the royal family.
The family said her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character would continue to inspire generations.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement added.
At 96, the late scholar left behind a legacy of academic excellence, public service, family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.
The family expressed comfort in its Christian faith, saying it believed she was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.
The Umu Obi Obahai family also extended its deepest condolences to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the deceased’s children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo and Chichi Okonjo.
The condolences also extended to their spouses, sons and daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and members of the wider Okonjo royal family.
The family called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating the life and enduring legacy of Professor Okonjo, describing her as a remarkable daughter of the community whose contributions to scholarship, family life and humanity would not be forgotten.
Her passing marks the loss of a respected academic and royal matriarch whose influence extended across generations and beyond Nigeria.
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