Okonjo-Iweala loses mum, pays tribute

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mrs Kamene Okonjo, the mother of World Trade Organization Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The matriarch passed away on Friday at the age of 96. In a statement released on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njuko-Ukoha, Governor Otti described the loss as a profound personal grief for himself and the residents of Abia State. He asserted that the departure of a mother creates a void that no amount of honor, achievement, or global recognition can fill. Otti characterized the late Mrs Okonjo as far more than a parent, labeling her a moral compass, teacher, confidant, and prayer warrior. According to the governor, her virtues of integrity, hard work, excellence, compassion, and service remained visible in her daughter’s life and contributions to humanity. He stated that Abia mourns Okonjo-Iweala not merely as a prominent Nigerian on the world stage, but as a beloved sister whose life reflected the values instilled by her mother. The governor prayed that God would comfort Okonjo-Iweala and her family during this difficult period, urging them to find solace in the knowledge that their mother lived a fulfilled and exemplary life. Presidential condolences were also extended by Bola Tinubu to the Okonjo royal family of Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State. The president described the deceased as a distinguished scholar and champion of women’s empowerment. He commiserated specifically with Okonjo-Iweala, other family members, and the people of Ogwashi-Uku. Tinubu noted that the loss represented the passing of an accomplished academic whose life was defined by intellectual distinction and service to humanity. He acknowledged her contributions to scholarship and her role as a model who combined professional excellence with dedication to family, community, and traditional institutions. The family announced the death through a statement issued on Sunday by Palace Secretary Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi. They identified the deceased as a renowned sociologist and the matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family. She was the wife of the late Obi Prof Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage. She was also the mother of the kingdom’s current traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II. The palace statement described her as a woman of exceptional intellect, humility, compassion, and commitment to humanity. It highlighted her academic contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights, noting that her gentleness and grace endeared her to many. The family statement emphasized that her achievements transcended the boundaries of Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her international admiration within academic and intellectual circles. They described her as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, as well as a cherished pillar of the royal family. While mourning her passing, the family celebrated a life exceptionally well lived. They took comfort in their Christian faith, stating that she rests peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction. At 96, the late scholar left behind a legacy of scholarship, service, family values, and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women. Okonjo-Iweala paid tribute to her mother via a post on her official X account on Sunday. She thanked friends and followers for their messages of condolence and support. She wrote that she was overwhelmed by the tributes and expressed gratitude on behalf of her entire family. She described her mother as a woman who lived a quality life until the end, expressing gratitude for having her for so long. She concluded by wishing her mother’s soul perfect peace. Governor Otti’s statement further elaborated on the emotional impact of the loss. He quoted the sentiment that losing a mother is equivalent to losing a part of oneself. For the people of Abia, he said, the loss was personal because they had lost a matriarch who raised a daughter who became a source of pride for Abia, the Ndigbo people, Nigeria, and all of humanity. He noted that no matter how accomplished a child becomes, a mother remains an irreplaceable source of comfort, quiet strength, and unconditional love. He observed that Okonjo-Iweala spoke of her mother with immense reverence and love, indicating a close bond that the governor felt deeply. The narrative surrounding the death highlights the intersection of high-level diplomatic leadership and deep familial roots in Nigerian culture. The reactions from both state and federal leaders underscore the respect commanded by the late professor. Her dual identity as a global academic and a traditional matriarch drew widespread acknowledgment. The statements from various quarters focused heavily on her character traits, such as humility and grace, alongside her professional accolades. The family’s emphasis on their faith provided a spiritual framework for their mourning process. The specific mention of her 66-year marriage and her role in raising the current traditional ruler adds historical depth to her biography. The collective response serves as a testament to the wide-reaching influence of her life and work.