Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and NDC Candidate for Delta North Senatorial District, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Victor O. Ochei, Esq., FNSE, has paid tribute to the late Professor Kamene Okonjo, describing her as a distinguished scholar, women’s rights advocate and exemplary matriarch whose life and values continue to inspire generations.
In a condolence message following her passing at the age of 96, Ochei extended his sympathies to the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the entire Okonjo family.
He described Professor Kamene Okonjo, who was married for 66 years to the late Obi (Professor) Chukwuka Okonjo, as a woman whose intellectual excellence, humility and commitment to the advancement of women distinguished her both in academia and in community life.
Ochei particularly highlighted her influence on the upbringing of her daughter, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, whose international career and leadership have earned her global recognition.
“The achievements of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala remind us of the enduring influence of a mother’s guidance and the values instilled at home. The discipline, courage, integrity and commitment to excellence that shape an individual’s life often begin with the lessons learnt from parents,” Ochei said.
He noted that Professor Kamene Okonjo’s legacy extended beyond her academic accomplishments to the values she nurtured in her family, adding that her example offered important lessons for young girls and women aspiring to excel in education, leadership, public service and other fields.
“Professor Kamene Okonjo is herself a role model for young girls and women. Her life demonstrates the importance of education, purposeful living, service to humanity and the courage to make a difference. These are virtues that generations of women can emulate,” he added.
Ochei prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed professor eternal rest and comfort the Okonjo family, the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and all who mourn her passing. He said her contributions to scholarship and women’s advancement, alongside the values she instilled in her family, would remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.
