The family of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), has been thrown into mourning following the death of her younger brother, Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo.
According to a report by The Nation published on Saturday, June 6, Prince Ikechukwu, who belonged to the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, died on Saturday, May 30, 2026.
Okonjo-Iweala’s Brother Dies
The Guardian also verified the sad development, reporting that the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State is grieving the loss of one of its royal sons.
In an official statement released by the kingdom, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, expressed deep sorrow over the prince’s passing, describing it as a significant loss to both the royal household and the wider community.
The statement portrayed the late prince as a highly valued member of the royal family whose life remained closely tied to the heritage, honour, and longstanding customs of the kingdom.
The Monarch said: “He was, above all, a proud and irreplaceable member of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.”
Paying tribute to his legacy, the traditional ruler noted that Prince Ikechukwu lived a life marked by dignity and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on countless people who encountered him.
Ifechukwude Okonjo II further stated that the prince’s legacy would continue to be remembered fondly by relatives, friends, and members of the Ogwashi-Uku community.
The statement added: “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.”
Peter Obi Expresses His Condolences
Among those who have publicly reacted to the loss is the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, who said he received the news with “profound sorrow.”
The former governor of Anambra State extended his sympathies to Okonjo-Iweala as she mourns the death of her younger brother.
Obi wrote on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page on Sunday, June 7: “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.”
He 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.”
See his post below
My dearest sister Ngozi @NOIweala ,
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…
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) June 7, 2026
