Okonjo-Iweala Pays Tribute To Late Mother

The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has paid tribute to her late mother, Prof. Kamene Okonjo, describing her as a woman who lived a quality life until the end.

The 96-year-old scholar died on Friday, with her passing announced by the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State.

Okonjo-Iweala, a former Minister of Finance, expressed gratitude to friends and followers who sent messages of condolence and support to her family following the death of the matriarch.

In a post on her official X handle on Sunday, she wrote, “Today, I have been overwhelmed with messages of condolences and tributes to my wonderful mother. I just want to thank all my friends and followers and let you know how appreciative my entire family and I are of your support.

“My mother lived a quality life till the end and we are very grateful we had her for so long. May her soul rest in perfect peace.”

Prof. Kamene Okonjo was the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family and mother of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II.

She was also the wife of the late Obi (Prof.) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.

Her death was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku, Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, on behalf of the royal family.

The statement described the late professor as an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.

“An internationally recognised and foremost sociologist, Prof. 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 and Nigeria, earning her admiration and respect within academic and intellectual circles internationally,” the statement read.

The royal family also described the deceased as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a cherished pillar of the family.

“Her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character will remain an enduring inspiration to generations yet unborn,” the statement added.

While expressing grief over her death, the family said it was also celebrating her life and accomplishments.

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

According to the statement, the late scholar, who died at 96, left behind an enduring legacy of scholarship, service, strong family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.

The family said it drew comfort from its Christian faith and the belief that she was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.

The statement also conveyed the family’s condolences to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the deceased’s children, including Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Onyema Okonjo and Chichi Okonjo, alongside their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and members of the wider Okonjo royal family.

The Umu Obi Obahai family called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating the life and enduring legacy of the late professor, noting that her contributions to humanity would not be forgotten.