World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is grieving the loss of her younger brother, Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo. The prince, a member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026.
The palace secretary, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi, announced the death in a public notice, and The Nation newspaper reported the news on Saturday, June 6. The Guardian also confirmed the development, noting that the entire Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom is in mourning.
In a statement issued by the kingdom, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, lamented that the late prince's passing has left a deep void in both the royal family and the kingdom. The monarch described Prince Okonjo as an irreplaceable member of the royal family, deeply connected to the history, dignity, and enduring traditions of the kingdom.
“He was, above all, a proud and irreplaceable member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family,” the Obi said. Reflecting on his life and contributions, he added that the prince lived with grace and touched the lives of many who came in contact with him. The monarch stated that his memory would remain cherished by family members, friends, and community members.
“His passage leaves a void that words can only partially express. He walked among us with grace, and his memory shall endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him,” the statement added.
Peter Obi Mourns Okonjo-Iweala’s Brother
Presidential hopeful Peter Obi joined others in mourning the deceased. The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the 2027 election expressed “profound sorrow” in a message directed at Okonjo-Iweala.
In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page on Sunday, June 7, Obi wrote: “My dearest sister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, it is with profound sorrow that I received the sad news of the demise of Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo, your younger brother. The loss of a younger sibling is an arduous and grievous experience. Please accept my sincerest sympathies, extended to you, the esteemed royal family of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, and all individuals who held Prince Ikechukwu in their affections.”
The former Anambra State governor added: “May God Almighty who called him home grant him eternal rest in His kingdom, and grant your family the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss. God Almighty bless your family always.”
The late prince is survived by his wife, daughter, brothers, sisters, and other extended family members.
