Ogwashi-Uku Mourns Professor Kamene Okonjo, Mother of WTO Chief, at 96

Late Professor Kamena Okonjo

By Ifeanyichukwu Simon

A life devoted to scholarship, family and the advancement of women has come to an end with the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
The renowned sociologist and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family died two days ago at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy that spans academia, family life and advocacy for women’s rights.
Her death has plunged Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, in Aniocha South Local Government Area, into mourning, with the royal family describing her as a woman whose intellectual accomplishments were matched by humility, compassion and a deep commitment to humanity.
Professor Okonjo was the wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku. Their marriage lasted 66 years.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, said the late professor combined exceptional intellectual ability with a gentle disposition that endeared her to those who knew her.
“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.
An internationally recognised sociologist, Professor Okonjo distinguished herself through her academic achievements and intellectual contributions, while championing women’s rights and empowerment.
According to the royal family, her influence extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her respect in international academic and intellectual circles.
Yet, beyond her professional accomplishments, the late professor occupied a central place in her family as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Her life, the palace said, reflected the values of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society, while her wisdom, kindness and quiet strength would continue to inspire generations.
Her children include Dr Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo.
The royal family extended its condolences to the reigning Obi, the deceased’s children and their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other members of the extended Okonjo family.
Although her death has brought grief to the kingdom and family, the palace said her legacy of learning, service, strong family values and advocacy for women’s advancement would endure.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement added.
Drawing comfort from their Christian faith, the family expressed the belief that the late professor was resting peacefully with the Lord after a life lived with grace and distinction.
The palace urged the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join the royal family in celebrating her life, describing her as a remarkable daughter of the kingdom whose contributions to scholarship and humanity would not be forgotten.
End