President Bola Tinubu has sent his condolences to the Okonjo royal family of Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State over the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo. She passed away at the age of 96.
In a statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late professor as a distinguished scholar, a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and a respected matriarch.
Tinubu specifically comforted her daughter, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, along with other members of the family and the people of Ogwashi-Uku. He said her life stood out for intellectual excellence, service to others and a steady commitment to lifting women and society.
The President noted how she combined academic success with devotion to her family, community and traditional institutions. He prayed that God grants her soul eternal rest and gives strength to all who are mourning.
Professor Okonjo died on Friday. She was the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai royal family and the wife of the late Obi Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, who previously ruled Ogwashi-Uku. The couple shared 66 years of marriage. She is also the mother of the current traditional ruler, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
The palace secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, said the family was mourning a woman of rare intellect, humility and compassion. He described her as an internationally recognised sociologist whose work and quiet advocacy for women’s rights left a lasting mark.
Dr Okonjo-Iweala responded on X, thanking people for their kind messages. “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,” she wrote.
Several public figures, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, have also sent their sympathies to the family.