Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State is mourning the passing of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, and Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
The renowned academic and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family passed on Friday at the age of 96.
Her death was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the palace secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, on behalf of the royal family.
Professor Kamene was the wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
The royal family described the deceased as an accomplished sociologist whose life was characterised by intellectual excellence, humility, compassion and an enduring commitment to humanity.
According to the statement, her academic accomplishments and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment earned her recognition both in Nigeria and internationally.
“Her achievements transcended the boundaries of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and Nigeria, earning her admiration and respect within academic and intellectual circles internationally,” the statement said.
Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, Professor Kamene was celebrated as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who played a pivotal role in the royal family.
The statement noted that her wisdom, kindness and exemplary character would continue to inspire generations to come.
The royal family expressed solace in its Christian faith, saying it found comfort in the belief that the deceased was resting peacefully with the Lord after a life marked by service, dedication and distinction.
It extended condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, her children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo, as well as their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and members of the extended Okonjo family.
The palace also called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join the royal family in honouring the life and legacy of the deceased, particularly her contributions to scholarship, women’s empowerment and societal development.
Professor Kamene’s death marks the passing of a distinguished academic whose influence extended beyond her family and community to the wider intellectual and social landscape.
