The Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State is mourning the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
Professor Kamene Okonjo, the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, 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 Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom. The couple were married for 66 years.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, described the deceased as an extraordinary woman whose life reflected intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and a commitment to human advancement.
The palace said Professor Okonjo was an internationally recognised sociologist who distinguished herself through academic achievements, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.
According to the statement, her influence extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her recognition within academic and intellectual circles internationally.
“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.
The royal family added that she represented the finest qualities of scholarship, motherhood, womanhood and service to society.
Royal Family Mourns Professor Kamene Okonjo
The palace described Professor Okonjo as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who remained a cherished pillar of the family throughout her life.
It said her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character would continue to inspire future generations.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement added.
“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 family also expressed comfort in its Christian faith, saying it believed the deceased was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.
Condolences To Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Ogwashi-Uku Monarch
The statement conveyed the royal family’s condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and all the deceased’s children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo.
It also extended condolences to their spouses, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo Royal Family.
The palace called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom to join the royal family in celebrating Professor Okonjo’s life and enduring contributions.
It described her as a remarkable daughter, mother, scholar and matriarch whose legacy of scholarship, service and advocacy for women would be remembered for generations.







