Nigerians mourn legendary songstress, broadcaster, Onyeka Onwenu

The Nigerian social media space has been alive since Tuesday night following the demise of legendary singer, Onyeka Onwenu who passed on shortly after performing at a private birthday party for prominent pharmaceutical entrepreneur, Stella Okoli, in Lagos.

The veteran singer, songwriter, broadcaster, actress and politician, reportedly died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos after slumping at the birthday party.

“It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli today (Tuesday, July 30, 2024), and after performing, she slumped.

“Onwenu was attending a friend’s birthday party when she took to the stage to perform. Shortly after returning to her seat, she suddenly collapsed.

“Emergency responders swiftly arrived and rushed her to the hospital in Victoria Island, where she was later pronounced dead,” the source said.

A multi-talented artist whose career spanned over four decades, Onwenu was not only a singer but also an actress, journalist, and politician.

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Her music was a blend of different genres cutting across reggae, pop, highlife and local folklore which she was able to use to address social and political issues.

Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. She went on to release numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”

She was also known for her political activism and was at one time, the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.

As an actress, she featured in top class movies including Half of a Yellow Sun, and Lions Heart, among others.

Onwenu was recognized for her contributions to Nigerian society including being awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

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