By NEWSCOUNT Desk
Professor Kamene Okonjo, renowned sociologist, advocate for women’s rights and mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has died at the age of 96.
The respected scholar and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State died on Friday.
Her death was announced by the royal family through the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, who described her as a woman of exceptional intellect, humility, compassion and commitment to humanity.
Professor Okonjo was also the mother of the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, and wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of the kingdom. The couple shared 66 years of marriage.
The late professor earned recognition for her academic contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment. Her work in sociology examined the social and political roles of Igbo women, earning her respect within academic circles in Nigeria and internationally.
Beyond her academic achievements, she was remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose wisdom, kindness and commitment to service touched her family and community.
Her daughter, Dr Okonjo-Iweala, a former Nigerian Minister of Finance, expressed gratitude to friends and well-wishers for their messages of condolence and support following her mother’s death.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also extended his condolences to the Okonjo royal family, describing Professor Okonjo as a distinguished scholar, champion of women’s empowerment and revered matriarch.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with Dr Okonjo-Iweala, other members of the family and the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
Tinubu acknowledged the late professor’s contributions to scholarship, service to humanity and the advancement of women, noting that she combined professional excellence with dedication to family, community and the preservation of traditional institutions.
He prayed that God would grant her eternal rest and comfort the family and all those mourning her passing.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has equally expressed his condolences to the Okonjo family and the people of Ogwashi-Uku over the death of the respected academic.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described Professor Okonjo as a distinguished scholar whose contributions to academia, women’s empowerment and society had earned her recognition.
Oborevwori acknowledged her achievements and dedication to humanity, as well as her role as a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. He extended his sympathies to Dr Okonjo-Iweala, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and other members of the royal family, praying God to give them the strength to bear the loss.
The death of Professor Okonjo has drawn attention to a life that combined academic distinction, family responsibility and service to society. Her contributions to the study of Igbo women’s roles in community politics and social change have formed part of her scholarly legacy.
She is survived by her children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo, alongside grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other members of the extended Okonjo family.
The royal family has called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating the life and legacy of the late professor, whose influence extended beyond her family and kingdom.
