Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72. Reports indicate that she died on Tuesday night after performing at an event on Banana Island, Lagos. Onwenu reportedly collapsed following her performance at the birthday celebration of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. She was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital in Victoria Island, as reported by The Guardian. Her family has yet to release an official statement on her passing.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Onyeka Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s, debuting with the album “For the Love of You” in 1981. She went on to release numerous albums and singles, including the beloved track “One Love.” In addition to her music, Onwenu was a prominent actress in Nollywood, earning several awards for her contributions to both film and music. She was celebrated as a trailblazer in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Beyond her work in entertainment, Onwenu was also active in politics. She served as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later as the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016. Her contributions to Nigerian society were widely recognized, and in 2011 she was awarded the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Various organizations acknowledged her as one of Nigeria’s most influential women. May her gentle soul rest in peace.