Okonjo-Iweala’s mother, Prof Kamene Okonjo, dies at 96

Professor Kamene Okonjo, the mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has died at the age of 96, Daily Post reports.

The Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Chief Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, announced the death on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family in a statement on Sunday.

The statement said Okonjo was the matriarch of the royal family and the 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 the community, 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 went beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her admiration in academic circles around the world.