Okonjo-Iweala pays tribute to late mother

The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has paid tribute to her mother, Prof. Kamene Okonjo, who died on last Friday at the age of 96.

The former Minister of Finance described her late mother as a woman who lived a quality life until the end.

In a post on her official X handle on Sunday, Okonjo-Iweala thanked friends and followers for their messages of condolence and support to her family.

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.”

The 96-year-old 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 the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, late Obi (Prof.) Chukwuka Okonjo, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.

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

The statement described the late Okonjo 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.

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“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 statement further described her as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a cherished pillar of the royal family.

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

The family added, “While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived.”

It noted that at 96, the late scholar left behind an enduring 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 statement said.

The Umu Obi Obahai family extended its 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, as well as their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo royal family.

The family also called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku to join in celebrating the life and enduring legacy of the late scholar and matriarch, whose contributions to humanity, it said, would never be forgotten.