The mother of the traditional ruler of Ogwashi Uku kingdom, Delta State, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo 11, and the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Professor Kamene Okonjo, has passed on at the age of 96.

The matriarch of Umu Obi Obahai Royal family of the kingdom, renowned sociologist, women’s rights advocate died on Friday, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence, service to humanity, family values and advocacy for women’s empowerment.

She was the beloved wife of the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.

Her death was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, on behalf of the royal family.

The statement described the deceased as an extraordinary woman whose remarkable life was characterised by intellectual brilliance, humility, compassion, dignity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.

According to the royal family, Professor Okonjo distinguished herself as an internationally recognised sociologist through her outstanding academic achievements, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.

“An internationally recognised and foremost sociologist, Professor Kamene Okonjo distinguished herself through her outstanding academic accomplishments, intellectual contributions and lifelong advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment,” the statement said.

It added that despite her exceptional intellectual accomplishments, the late professor remained humble, gentle and gracious, earning the admiration and affection of those who encountered her.

“She was a woman of exceptional intellect, yet possessed a rare gentleness of spirit, humility and grace that endeared her to everyone privileged to know her,” the statement added.

The royal family noted that her achievements extended beyond Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and Nigeria, earning her widespread recognition and respect within international academic and intellectual circles.

It said she embodied the finest qualities of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society, leaving behind an enduring example for younger generations.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Professor Okonjo was described as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a cherished pillar of the royal family.

Her wisdom, kindness, quiet strength and exemplary character, the family said, would remain a lasting source of inspiration to generations yet unborn.

“While we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life exceptionally well lived,” the statement said.

The family noted that at 96, the late professor had bequeathed an extraordinary legacy of scholarship, service, strong family values and advocacy for the dignity and advancement of women.

It expressed confidence in the Christian faith and the belief that she was resting peacefully with the Lord after completing her earthly journey with grace and distinction.

The statement also conveyed the royal family’s condolences to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku and the deceased’s children, including Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Njideka Okonjo-Udochi, Prince Onyema Okonjo and Prince Chichi Okonjo.

The condolences were extended to their spouses, sons- and daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the wider Okonjo Royal Family.

The royal family called on the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom to join in celebrating the life and legacy of the deceased, whom it described as a remarkable daughter, mother, scholar and matriarch whose contributions to humanity would not be forgotten.