RismadarVoice Reporters
October 26, 2026
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has expressed condolences to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, following the death of her mother, Professor Kamene Okonjo, at the age of 96.
Otti described the passing of the renowned sociologist and women’s rights advocate as a personal loss to him and the people of Abia State.
The governor conveyed his sympathies in a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njuko-Ukoha.
According to Otti, the death of a mother creates an irreplaceable void, regardless of a child’s achievements, public recognition or professional accomplishments.
He said the people of Abia shared in the grief of Okonjo-Iweala, whom he described as a distinguished Nigerian whose international achievements reflected the values instilled in her by her late mother.
The governor praised Professor Okonjo for her contributions to education, family development and society, describing her as a moral guide, teacher, confidant and source of spiritual strength.
He noted that her commitment to integrity, hard work, excellence, compassion and service remained evident in her daughter’s contributions to national and international development.
Otti further acknowledged the close relationship between Okonjo-Iweala and her mother, stressing that the loss would be deeply felt by the family.
He prayed for divine comfort and strength for the WTO chief and other members of the Okonjo family during their period of mourning.
The governor also encouraged the family to take consolation in the deceased’s accomplishments and the enduring influence of her life.
Professor Kamene Okonjo died on Friday, October 23, according to an announcement by the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State.
She was the wife of the late Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, a former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage.
A distinguished academic, Professor Okonjo was widely recognised for her research in sociology and advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.
She was also the mother of the current traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
In a separate tribute, Okonjo-Iweala thanked friends and well-wishers for their messages of condolence, expressing gratitude that her mother had lived a fulfilling life.
President Bola Tinubu also extended condolences to the family, acknowledging the late professor’s contributions to scholarship, women’s empowerment and community development.
Otti maintained that her legacy of education, service and strong family values would continue to inspire future generations.
