Professor Kamene Okonjo, the mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has died at the age of 96.
Her death was announced on Sunday by the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Chief Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, in a statement issued on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
The statement described Professor Okonjo as the matriarch of the royal family and the mother of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
She was married to the late Obi Chukwuka Okonjo, the former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, and the couple shared 66 years of marriage.
The royal family paid tribute to the late professor, describing her as an extraordinary woman whose life was marked by intellectual distinction, humility, compassion and service to 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,” the statement said.
The family added that her influence extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her recognition and admiration within international academic circles.
Professor Okonjo’s death marks the loss of a respected member of the Ogwashi-Uku royal family and an academic whose work, according to the family, was dedicated to scholarship and the advancement of women.
She was also the mother of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Nigerian economist who serves as Director-General of the WTO, the international organisation responsible for overseeing global trade rules and facilitating trade negotiations among member countries.
The royal family’s announcement did not provide details about the circumstances of her death or funeral arrangements.
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