The 2027 African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and his Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) counterpart, Peter Obi, have mourned the demise of Prince Ikechukwu Okonjo, the younger brother of the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
Okonjo reportedly passed away on the 30th of May.
His demise was however announced on Sunday in a statement issued by the Palace Secretary of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi.
Reacting to the development in a post shared on his X handle on Monday, Atiku expressed his condolences to Okonjo-Iweala and the royal family.
The former Vice President described the late Okonjo as a respected member of the Umu Obi Obahai royal family of the Ogwashi-Uku kingdom.
He prayed for the repose of his soul and strength to the family he left behind.
“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.
“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.” Atiku wrote.
Prior to the ex-Vice President’s state, Obi, in a statement issued yesterday expressed sorrow over the loss.
Obi described the loss of a younger sibling as an “arduous and grievous experience” and extended his heartfelt sympathies to the family.
The former governor conveyed his condolences not only to Okonjo-Iweala but also to the royal family of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom and all those who knew and cherished the deceased prince.
“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,” Obi stated.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and for strength for the bereaved family during the difficult period.
“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,” Obi added.