Delta Community Mourns As Obi Okonjo, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala Lose Mother

A matriarch, Prof Kamene Okonjo, mother of the Director General of World Trade Organisation, (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has passed on.

Also, the mother of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi Uku kingdom, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo 11 and matriarch of Umu Obi Obahai Royal family of the  kingdom, died on Friday aged 96 years.

She was the wife of the late His Royal Majesty, Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, with whom she shared 66 remarkable years of marriage.

A statement issued by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, Palace Secretary of the kingdom on behalf the royal family on Sunday, described the late queen mother as  an extraordinary woman whose remarkable life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.

The statement said: “An internationally recognised and foremost sociologist, Professor Kamene Okonjo distinguished herself through her outstanding academic accomplishments, 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.

“Her achievements transcended the boundaries of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and Nigeria, earning her admiration and respect within academic and intellectual circles internationally.

 “She represented the very finest qualities of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society.

“Beyond her considerable professional accomplishments, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a cherished pillar of the Royal Family. Her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character will remain an enduring inspiration to generations yet unborn.

“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived.

“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.

“We take comfort in our Christian faith and the assurance that she is resting peacefully with the Lord, having completed her earthly journey with grace and distinction.

“The entire Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family extends its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to His Royal Majesty, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, and to all her beloved children, including Princess Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo, Prince Chichi Okonjo as well as their spouses, sons and daughters in law, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the entire extended Okonjo Royal Family.”

The statement enjoined the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom  to join the royal family in celebrating the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of this remarkable daughter, mother, scholar and matriarch whose contributions to humanity will never be forgotten.