The Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State is mourning the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, and Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The Nation reports that the renowned sociologist…...
The Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State is mourning the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, and Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
The Nation reports that the renowned sociologist and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family died on Friday at the age of 96.
She was married to the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, for 66 years.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, said the royal family was mourning an exceptional woman whose life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and dedication to humanity.
The statement described the late Professor Okonjo as an internationally recognised sociologist who distinguished herself through her academic achievements, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.
“She was a woman of exceptional intellect, yet possessed a rare gentleness of spirit, humility and grace that endeared her to everyone privileged to know her,” the statement said.
It added that her accomplishments extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her international recognition and respect in academic and intellectual circles.
The royal family described her as an embodiment of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society.
Beyond her professional achievements, Professor Okonjo was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, as well as a pillar of the royal family.
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According to the statement, her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character would remain an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement added.
The family said the deceased left behind a lasting legacy of scholarship, service, strong family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.
It also expressed confidence in its Christian faith, saying it drew comfort from the belief that she was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.
The royal family extended its condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the deceased’s children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo.
The condolences also extended to their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo family.
The statement urged the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join the royal family in celebrating the late professor’s life and legacy, describing her as a remarkable daughter of the kingdom whose contributions to scholarship and humanity would endure.