Kamene Okonjo, a professor, renowned sociologist, women’s rights advocate and mother of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, has died at the age of 96.
Okonjo, who was the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, died on Friday, according to a statement issued on Sunday by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, palace secretary of the kingdom, on behalf of the royal family.
She was the wife of the late Obi Chukwuka Okonjo, a professor and former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she spent 66 years of marriage. She was also the mother of the kingdom’s current traditional ruler, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
The royal family described her as an accomplished scholar whose life was defined by academic excellence, service to humanity and a lifelong commitment to advancing women’s rights.
‘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,’ the statement said.
Despite her academic achievements and international recognition, the family said, she remained humble and compassionate.
‘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,’ it added.
Her influence extended beyond her academic work and royal responsibilities. The family described her as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose wisdom, kindness and strength helped shape generations of the Okonjo family.
Her children include Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the former Nigerian finance minister who became WTO director-general in 2021, as well as Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo.
The royal family said her life represented the values of scholarship, motherhood, service and the advancement of women, leaving an example for younger generations to follow.
‘While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,’ the statement said.
The family extended its condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, her children and their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo royal family.
It also called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to celebrate her life and contributions, describing her as a scholar and matriarch whose legacy would endure beyond her lifetime.
The family said it took comfort in its Christian faith and the belief that she was resting peacefully with the Lord after a life marked by distinction and service.