OGWASHI-UKU: The people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State have been thrown into mourning following the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the mother of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
Professor Kamene Okonjo reportedly died on Friday at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence, public service, women’s empowerment and family values.
She was the wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, Palace Secretary, on behalf of the royal family, the late matriarch was described as an extraordinary woman whose life was marked by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and dedication to humanity.
The statement noted that Professor Okonjo was an internationally recognised sociologist whose academic contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment earned her respect beyond Nigeria.
Despite her remarkable intellectual achievements, she was remembered for her gentleness, humility and grace, qualities that endeared her to people who encountered her.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, the late professor was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, as well as a cherished pillar of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
The royal family said her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character would remain an enduring source of inspiration to future generations.
At 96 years, Professor Kamene Okonjo leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of scholarship, service, family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women, the statement said.
The family expressed comfort in its Christian faith, saying the late matriarch had completed her earthly journey with grace and distinction.
It also extended condolences to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, her children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo, alongside their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo family.
The statement called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom to join the royal family in celebrating the life and enduring contributions of the late scholar, describing her as a remarkable daughter, mother and matriarch whose impact on society would not be forgotten.
Professor Kamene Okonjo’s death marks the loss of a respected academic and matriarch whose influence extended from her home in Delta State to international intellectual circles.
RapidoSpace News extends its condolences to the Okonjo royal family, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom over this painful loss.
