Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sent condolences to Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the World Trade Organization Director-General, following the death of her younger brother, Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo.
Prince Ikechukwu died on May 30, and the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom in Delta State announced the loss on Sunday. He was a member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, a prestigious lineage in the ancient kingdom.
Atiku posted his condolences on X on Monday, calling the loss painful and praying for strength for the family. "Dear Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the recent loss of your beloved younger brother, Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo, who, until his passing, was a respected member of the Umu Obi Obahai royal family of the Ogwashi-Uku kingdom in Delta State," the former vice president wrote.
He continued: "I understand how deeply painful it is to bury a family member. My family and I hold you and yours in our thoughts and prayers. May you and your loved ones find strength during this difficult time. We pray that his soul rest in peace."
The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, His Royal Majesty Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, described Prince Ikechukwu as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother and dedicated uncle. The monarch said his passing had created a deep void in both the royal family and the kingdom.
"He was a proud and irreplaceable member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, whose roots run deep in the history, dignity and tradition of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom," the Obi said in a statement.
Okonjo-Iweala, who previously served as Nigeria's finance minister, now leads the WTO, the global body that oversees international trade agreements and disputes between nations. Her appointment as WTO chief in 2021 marked a significant moment for Nigeria on the world stage.
