By Mokobia Rita
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed condolences to the Okonjo royal family of Ogwashi-Uku following the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, a renowned sociologist and advocate for women’s empowerment, who died at the age of 96.
In a condolence statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the late professor as an accomplished scholar whose contributions to education, women’s rights and society would remain a lasting source of inspiration.
Oborevwori said Professor Okonjo’s life was marked by intellectual achievement, compassion and a commitment to service, qualities he noted had earned her recognition beyond Nigeria.
The late professor was the wife of the late Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, a former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, and the mother of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, as well as the kingdom’s reigning monarch, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II.
The governor also acknowledged her contributions to family life, describing her as a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose values and accomplishments would continue to influence future generations.
He extended his sympathies to Okonjo-Iweala, the traditional ruler and other members of the immediate and extended Okonjo family, as well as the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area.
Oborevwori prayed that God would grant the bereaved family the strength to endure their loss and give the late professor eternal rest.
He described her death as the close of a life distinguished by scholarship, dedication to family and meaningful contributions to humanity.
Professor Okonjo’s death has drawn tributes from public officials and institutions, with many recalling her academic work and longstanding advocacy for women’s rights. Her passing is being mourned by the Ogwashi-Uku royal family and the wider academic community.
