Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s mother, Prof Kamene Okonjo, dies at 96
The mother of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Professor Kamene Okonjo, has died at the age of 96.
The Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Chief Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, announced her death in a statement on Sunday on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
The statement described the late professor as the matriarch of the royal family and mother of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
She was the wife of the late Obi Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
The royal family described her as an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion and dedication 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 achievements extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her recognition and admiration in academic circles internationally.
