Tragic Loss: Human Rights Activist Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin Mourns Death of Younger Sister at 51
Prominent Nigerian human rights activist and women's rights advocate, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, is grieving the sudden loss of her younger sister, Comrade Franca Ngozi Okei-Mebu (née Okei), who passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 51. The family announced the sad news on Tuesday, January 27, through a statement and social media posts. In her confirmation to journalists in Lagos, Dr. Okei-Odumakin expressed deep sorrow but submitted to the will of God, describing the demise as tragic. Comrade Franca Ngozi Okei-Mebu was known in activist circles and shared her sister's commitment to social justice causes. Details surrounding the cause of death have not been publicly disclosed, and the family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, president of Women Arise for Change Initiative and Centre for Participatory Democracy, among other groups, is one of Nigeria's most vocal advocates for gender equality, democracy, and human r...