Professor Kamene Okonjo, renowned sociologist, women’s rights advocate and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, has died at the age of 96.
She passed away on Friday, according to a statement released on Sunday by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, palace secretary of the kingdom, on behalf of the royal family. Her death has thrown the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area into mourning.
Professor Okonjo was the mother of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and former Nigerian finance minister, and of the reigning traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II. She was the wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of the kingdom, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
In its statement, the royal family described her 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, Professor Kamene Okonjo distinguished herself through her outstanding academic accomplishments, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment,” the statement said.
Despite her scholarly achievements and international recognition, the family noted that she remained humble and gracious. “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,” it added. Her influence, the family said, extended far beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her respect in academic and intellectual circles worldwide.
Beyond her professional life, Professor Okonjo was remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character shaped generations of the Okonjo family. Her children include Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo.
“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the royal family stated. “At 96 years, Professor Kamene Okonjo leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of scholarship, service, family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women. We take comfort in our Christian faith and the assurance that she is resting peacefully with the Lord, having completed her earthly journey with grace and distinction.”
The family extended heartfelt condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, her children and their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo royal family. It also called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating her life and enduring contributions as a scholar, mother and matriarch.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
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