Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72. Reports indicate that Onwenu died Tuesday night following a performance at a birthday event for Stella Okoli, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, in Banana Island, Lagos.
After the performance, Onwenu reportedly collapsed and was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island, although her family has not yet officially confirmed the news.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, Onyeka Onwenu began her illustrious music career in the 1980s.
She released her debut album, For the Love of You, in 1981 and went on to become a prominent figure in Nigerian music with hits like “One Love.”
Over the decades, she released numerous albums and singles, earning her a place as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
In addition to her successful career in music, Onwenu made significant contributions to Nollywood, acting in several films and receiving numerous awards for her work in both music and film.
Her influence extended beyond the arts into politics; she served as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture starting in 2013 and later as the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development from 2016.
Onwenu’s contributions to Nigerian society were widely recognized. She was honored with the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011 and acknowledged as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organizations.
Her death marks the end of a remarkable career that touched many lives through her music, acting, and public service. The Nigerian entertainment and political communities mourn the loss of a trailblazer and icon.