By George Omagbemi
Professor Kamene Okonjo, renowned Nigerian sociologist, women’s rights advocate and mother of World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has died at the age of 96.
Her death was announced on Sunday by the royal family of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State. She was the wife of the late Professor Chukwuka Okonjo, a former traditional ruler of the kingdom, and mother of the reigning Obi, Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo II.
Professor Okonjo was recognised for her contributions to sociology, academic development and the advancement of women’s rights. Her life also attracted national attention in December 2012 when she was abducted from her home in Ogwashi-Uku.
The incident occurred while her daughter, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was serving as Nigeria’s finance minister under former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, the WTO chief recalled how an investigation into alleged fraud involving approximately $2.4 billion in fuel subsidy claims preceded her mother’s abduction.
Okonjo-Iweala said the government had refused to pay disputed claims after an audit uncovered what she described as fraud. She later received threats, and her mother’s abductors reportedly demanded that she resign as finance minister and leave Nigeria in exchange for her release.
Professor Kamene was held captive for five days before escaping, according to her daughter. The episode became one of the most widely reported kidnapping cases involving a senior Nigerian government official’s family.
Beyond that ordeal, the late professor leaves behind a legacy of scholarship, public service, family devotion and advocacy for women’s empowerment.
The royal family described her as a woman of exceptional intellect, humility and compassion whose influence extended beyond her immediate family and community.
Her passing marks the end of a remarkable life that combined academic achievement with service to society.
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