By Deborah Coker
Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) has commiserated with the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, over the death of her mother, Prof. Kamene Okonjo.
This is contained in a condolence message issued by Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, on behalf of his family and the people of Delta North.
In the message in Abuja on Monday, the lawmaker described the death of Okonjo, a renowned sociologist as a profound loss to her family, the Okonjo royal family of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta and the Anioma nation.
The late Prof Okonjo, who was the wife of the late Obi (Prof) Chukwuka Okonjo, the immediate past traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku, was a distinguished academic and advocate for women’s rights and empowerment.
She was also the mother of the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Obi Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, whose international service has brought recognition to Nigeria.
Nwoko noted that the Okonjo family occupied a respected place in Ogwashi-Uku and beyond, adding that the passing of its matriarch marked the end of a remarkable life devoted to scholarship, family and service to humanity.
He said the deceased legacy extended beyond her accomplishments as an academic to the values she instilled in her children and the generations whose lives she influenced.
According to the senator, while her death will be deeply felt by her immediate family, her contributions to scholarship and the advancement of women will remain an enduring part of her legacy.
He particularly commiserated with Okonjo-Iweala, noting that the loss of a mother remained deeply personal, irrespective of one’s achievements or position in public life.
He extended his sympathies to the reigning Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, other members of the Okonjo family, their extended relations and the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, urging them to draw comfort from the long and impactful life the late professor lived.
Prof. Kamene Okonjo’s death was announced by the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku.
The family described her as an internationally recognised sociologist whose life was marked by intellectual distinction, humility, compassion and a longstanding commitment to women’s rights and empowerment.
(NAN)