Professor Kamene Okonjo
The family of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), is mourning the loss of their matriarch, Professor Kamene Okonjo, who has reportedly died at the age of 96.
Professor Kamene Okonjo, a respected academic and sociologist, was also the mother of Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State.
According to reports, she died on Friday, October 23, 2026, with the announcement of her passing attributed to a statement issued by the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom on behalf of the royal family.
Beyond her prominent family connections, the late professor was recognised for her academic contributions and advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.
She was married to the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom. Their marriage reportedly spanned 66 years, and together they built a family whose influence reached both Nigeria and the international community.
Her passing marks a significant loss for her family, the Ogwashi-Uku community and those who knew her through her academic and public contributions.
As tributes emerge, attention is turning to the legacy of a woman remembered for her intellect, commitment to education and dedication to her family and community.
May her soul rest in peace.
Dr. Njideka Okonjo-Udochi
The news of the passing of Professor Kamene Okonjo at the age of 96, was corroborated in a social media post tribute by another of her siblings Dr. Njideka Okonjo-Udochi which reads:
“With gratitude to God for a lifetime of #achievement, #accomplishment and #service, I share the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Professor Kamene Okonjo, on October 23, 2026, at the age of 96. ~By Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi
My mother was a scholar long before it was common for an African woman to be one. She earned her PhD in sociology from Boston University and became an internationally respected sociologist and professor.
Her landmark 1976 work, “The Dual-Sex Political System in Operation: Igbo Women and Community Politics in Midwestern Nigeria,” showed the world that Igbo women had always held real authority, through their own leaders, councils and institutions. At a time when many told the story of African women as one of silence, she documented their power. Scholars still cite her work today.
She gave her life to the dignity and advancement of women. She was also the devoted wife of my late father, His Royal Majesty Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, for 66 years, and the Queen Mother of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom. To us her children, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was simply Mommy: #brilliant, #humble, #gentle and #strong.
Mommy taught us to believe in ourselves and to trust God through difficult times. “Stay focused on your goals,” she would say, “and God will see you through.” She taught us to forgive others, because God forgives us.
These lessons has carried us through every season of our lives
Everything I have done as a physician, from caring for patients for 36 years to building the Zinure Foundation for the health of African women, carries her fingerprints. She taught me that a woman’s voice matters and that #knowledge is meant to #serve.
Mommy, you finished your race with grace. Your torch is in our hands, and we will carry it.
Rest in perfect peace.
We love you so much and will miss you dearly “
#ProfKameneOkonjo, #KameneOkonjo #NgoziOkonjoIweala #WTO #DeltaState #OgwashiUku #RIP
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS PROFESSOR KAMENE OKONJO
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the Okonjo royal family of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, on the passing of Prof. Kamene Okonjo, who died at the age of 96.
Prof. Okonjo was a distinguished scholar, a champion of women’s empowerment, and a revered matriarch.
A Statement by Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, says the President particularly commiserates with her daughter, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, other family members, and the people of Ogwashi-Uku over the loss of their beloved mother, matriarch, and community leader.
The President describes Prof. Okonjo’s passing as the loss of an accomplished academic whose life was defined by intellectual distinction, service to humanity, and an enduring commitment to advancing women and society.
President Tinubu acknowledges her contributions to scholarship and her inspiring example as a woman who combined professional excellence with dedication to family, community, and the preservation of traditional institutions.
The President prays that Almighty God will grant the departed eternal rest and comfort to the family and all who mourn her passing.