Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State has been thrown into mourning following the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and of the kingdom’s traditional ruler, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.

The celebrated sociologist and matriarch of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family reportedly died on Friday at 96.

She was married for 66 years to the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, the former traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku.

In a statement on Sunday, the Palace Secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, said the royal family was grieving a remarkable woman whose life embodied intellectual excellence, humility, compassion and service to humanity.

The statement described Professor Okonjo as an internationally acclaimed sociologist who made notable academic contributions and spent much of her life championing women’s rights and empowerment.

It added that her influence extended far beyond Ogwashi-Uku and Nigeria, earning her respect and recognition in global academic and intellectual circles.

The palace also hailed her as a symbol of scholarship, womanhood, motherhood and service to society.

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Professor Okonjo was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a respected pillar of the royal family.