Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has expressed condolences to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, over the death of her mother, Mrs Kamene Okonjo, aged 96.
Governor Otti, who described the death as a personal loss to him and the people of Abia State, said the loss of a mother leaves a void that no honour, accomplishment or global recognition can fill.
In a condolence message issued on behalf of his family, the state government and the people of Abia, the governor said the state shared in Okonjo-Iweala’s grief, describing her as a beloved sister whose life and accomplishments reflect the values instilled in her by her late mother.
He said the deceased was more than a mother, describing her as a teacher, confidante, moral guide and prayer warrior whose values of integrity, hard work, excellence, compassion and service continued to find expression in her daughter’s contributions to humanity.
“To lose a mother is to lose a part of oneself. For us in Abia, this is a personal loss. We have lost a mother, a matriarch who raised a daughter who has become a global pride to Abia, Ndigbo, Nigeria and to all of humanity”, Governor Otti said.
The Governor noted that a mother’s place remained irreplaceable, regardless of her child’s achievements, adding that he understood the depth of the bond between Okonjo-Iweala and her late mother.
“No matter how accomplished a child becomes, a mother remains that irreplaceable place of comfort, quiet strength and unconditional love”, he said.
Governor Otti added that the State shared in the WTO chief’s pain, noting that she had often spoken with deep affection and reverence for her mother.
He prayed that God, who had sustained Okonjo-Iweala throughout her years of service to humanity, would comfort her and the entire family during the period of mourning.
The governor urged the bereaved family to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled and impactful life, adding that her legacy would endure for generations.
