Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, has died. She was 96.
The renowned sociologist and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family died on Friday, October 23, 2026.
She 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.
In a statement, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, said the royal family was mourning an exceptional woman whose life was marked by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and commitment to humanity.
The statement described the late Professor Okonjo as an internationally recognised sociologist who distinguished herself through her academic achievements, 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,” the statement said.
It added that her achievements went beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her international recognition and respect within academic and intellectual circles.
The statement also described her as an embodiment of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Prof. Okonjo was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, as well as a pillar of the royal family.
The statement added that her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character would remain an enduring source of inspiration to future generations.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement added.
It said the deceased had left behind a lasting legacy of scholarship, service, family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.
The royal family expressed confidence in its Christian faith, saying it drew comfort from the belief that she was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.
The family also extended its condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the deceased’s children, including Dr Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo, as well as their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo family.
It urged the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join the royal family in celebrating the life and legacy of the late professor, describing her as a remarkable daughter of the kingdom whose contributions to scholarship and humanity would not be forgotten.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo.
The President described the late academic and mother of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as an accomplished scholar whose life was characterised by intellectual distinction, service to humanity and unwavering commitment to the advancement of women and society.
In a condolence message in Abuja through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his sympathies to the Okonjo royal family, particularly Okonjo-Iweala, other family members, and the people of Ogwashi-Uku over the loss of their revered matriarch and community leader.
He noted that Professor Okonjo distinguished herself not only through her contributions to scholarship but also as a passionate advocate of women’s empowerment, whose accomplishments and dedication to societal development remained worthy of emulation.
According to the President, the late scholar exemplified the virtues of intellectual excellence, compassion and commitment to the progress of humanity, leaving behind an enduring legacy of service.
President Tinubu particularly acknowledged her remarkable ability to combine a distinguished academic career with devotion to family, community development and the preservation of traditional institutions.
He observed that her life and accomplishments provided an inspiring example of the important roles women could play in advancing education, strengthening families and contributing to national development.
The President urged the bereaved family to take comfort in the late matriarch’s remarkable achievements, the lives she touched and the lasting impact of her contributions to scholarship and society.
He prayed to Almighty God to grant Professor Okonjo eternal rest and comfort her family, the people of Ogwashi-Uku, and all those mourning her passing.
