LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian music legend, actress, and activist Onyeka Onwenu passed away on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos.
She collapsed at a birthday party and could not be revived. She was 72.
Onwenu, known for her powerful voice and activism, had expressed her wishes for a simple and private burial in an opinion article published three years ago.
In her 2021 piece, she urged her loved ones to “do it quickly, quietly, and privately” and to avoid excessive mourning.
Instead, she wanted them to celebrate her life with prayers, light-hearted moments, and sharing jokes about her.
Onwenu also criticized the lavish displays of wealth often seen at Nigerian burials, citing the extravagant funeral of Obi Cubana’s mother as an example.
She advocated for more modest and meaningful ways to honour the dead.
Onyeka Onwenu, Nigerian Music Legend, Passes Away at 72
Onyeka Onwenu, the renowned Nigerian singer, songwriter, actress, and political activist, passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, evening at the age of 72.
Onwenu reportedly collapsed after performing at a birthday party for Stella Okoli, the founding CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, and was subsequently pronounced dead at Reddington Hospital in Lagos.
Her family, through a statement on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, from her sons Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende, officially announced her death.
“It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu. She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria,” the statement read.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed.”
The sons’ statement continued, “Onyeka Onwenu was a National Treasure! An Icon and Legend, who inspired multiple generations of Nigerians and people around the world with her Music, Acting, Philanthropy, and Humanitarian Efforts. She is greatly loved and missed!”
The family expressed their gratitude to those who were with her in her final moments and to the public for their outpouring of support.
“Specifically, we are deeply grateful to Mr. Peter Obi, Mr. and Mrs. John Momoh, and Mr. and Mrs. Okonkwo, as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr. Okpara, all of whom were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage,” they noted.
Onwenu’s legacy includes a rich repertoire of music, with hits like “Wait for Me,” a duet with Juju maestro King Sunny Ade, remaining popular.
Her contributions to the arts and her relentless advocacy for women’s development have left an indelible mark on Nigerian society.
As the family makes arrangements for her funeral, they have requested that the public take time to remember and celebrate her life and the significant impact she had on countless lives, including theirs.
“As we take the time to make the necessary plans, we would like you all to take the time to remember her life, the contributions she made, and the impact she made on so many lives, including ours,” her sons stated.
Onwenu, born on January 31, 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, was a towering figure in Nigeria’s music and cultural landscape, affectionately known as “The Elegant Stallion.”
Her illustrious career spanned several decades, during which she earned acclaim not only for her musical talents but also for her roles in politics and social advocacy.
She served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development in 2013.
A Rich Legacy in Music and Film
Onyeka Onwenu’s music career began in 1981 with the release of her debut album, “For the Love of You,” followed by “Endless Life” in 1982, produced by the legendary Sunny Okosun. Her subsequent albums, including “The Morning Light” (1984), “One Love” (1986), and “Dancing In The Sun” (1988), solidified her reputation as a versatile and groundbreaking artist.
Onwenu uniquely blended Pop, Juju, and Highlife music, creating ‘eargasmic’ sounds that resonated with diverse audiences.
Her music was not just entertainment but a medium for advocacy. Onwenu’s songs often highlighted social issues, health, women’s rights, and the plight of children.
Her ability to weave messages of unity and cultural cohabitation into her music earned her a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
In 1999, Onwenu transitioned to the movie industry with her debut in “Not Your Wealth.” Over the years, she appeared in more than 100 Nollywood films, including notable titles like “Conspiracy” (1999), “Different Worlds” (2006), and “Half of a Yellow Sun” (2014), where she starred alongside Chiwetel Ejiofor and Thandie Newton.
Her contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry were celebrated by peers such as Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Laolu Akins, Charles O’Tudor, and former PMAN president Tony Okoroji.
Public Service and Advocacy
Beyond entertainment, Onwenu made significant strides in public service and advocacy. She was the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture, where she worked tirelessly to promote Nigerian arts and heritage.
In 2013, she was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development, a role in which she championed women’s rights and development across Nigeria.
Onwenu’s death marks the end of an era in Nigerian music and cultural history, but her influence and contributions will continue to resonate for generations to come.
