By Gabriel Ameh
The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Esther Usman, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Professor Kamene Okonjo, mother of the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
Professor Kamene Okonjo died on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the age of 96.
In a condolence message dated October 27, 2026, Usman described the late professor’s death as a significant loss to Nigeria, despite her having lived a long and fulfilled life.
She said Nigeria would particularly miss Professor Okonjo’s contributions to academia and her service to the people of Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State.
Usman also paid tribute to her traditional leadership, noting that her warmth, wisdom and commitment to the welfare of her people earned her respect and honour in the kingdom.
The Labour Party chairman said her personal encounters with the late professor had left her with fond memories of a woman whose motherly affection touched those around her.
“For those of us who had the privilege of meeting her and experiencing her motherly love, her departure leaves an enduring void in our hearts,” Usman said.
She extended her condolences to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the royal family of Ogwashi-Uku, the Delta State Government, the people of Delta State and Nigerians over the death of the respected academic and matriarch.
Usman prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and asked God to give her family and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
Professor Kamene Okonjo’s death marks the passing of a woman remembered for her contributions to education, traditional leadership and community service.
Source: Labour Party National Secretariat.
