Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senator Ede Dafinone and House of Assembly Speaker Emomotimi Guwor have paid tribute to Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of World Trade Organisation Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, following her death at 96.
The respected academic died on Friday, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship, women’s empowerment and community service.
Kamene was the wife of the late Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, a former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State. She was also the mother of the kingdom’s current monarch, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II.
The three Delta leaders described her as an accomplished scholar and respected matriarch whose contributions extended beyond her family.
Oborevwori Praises Kamene Okonjo’s Legacy
Governor Oborevwori described the late professor as a distinguished academic whose contributions to education, women’s empowerment and society would remain significant.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, the governor praised her achievements and commitment to service.
He noted that Kamene earned recognition beyond Nigeria through her academic work and advocacy for women’s rights.
Oborevwori also highlighted her humility, compassion and dedication to helping others. He said her influence as a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother would continue to inspire future generations.
Dafinone Sympathises With Okonjo-Iweala’s Family
Senator Ede Dafinone also expressed condolences to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the wider Okonjo family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
He described Kamene as a woman whose life reflected purpose, excellence and service to humanity.
According to the senator, her contributions to scholarship and women’s empowerment left a lasting mark on society.
Dafinone said her death represented a major loss to her family and the wider community. He particularly sympathised with Okonjo-Iweala, Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo II and other members of the royal family.
He added that although the family would miss their matriarch, her achievements and devotion to her loved ones offered lasting reasons to celebrate her life.
Guwor Pays Tribute to Respected Matriarch
Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Emomotimi Guwor described Kamene as an accomplished academic and community figure whose life centred on intellectual achievement, family and service.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, Guwor said her passing was a painful loss for the Okonjo family, Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Delta State and Nigeria.
He stressed that Kamene’s identity extended beyond being the mother of the WTO chief. She was also a respected scholar, traditional queen and community builder.
Guwor noted that her service to the community and the achievements of her children brought pride to Delta State, Nigeria and Africa.
The tributes from the governor, senator and assembly speaker reflect the recognition Kamene received for her contributions to academia, family life and community development.