Nigerian Iconic Singer Onyeka Onwenu passes away at 72
Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away. Reports indicate that the iconic artist died Tuesday night after performing at an event in Banana Island, Lagos. She was 72.
According to witnesses, Onwenu collapsed after performing at the birthday celebration of Stella Okoli, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. She was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island, as reported by The Guardian Newspaper. Her family has yet to confirm her death officially.
Onyeka Onwenu was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria. She began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. Over the years, she released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love.”
In addition to her music career, Onwenu also made a name for herself in Nollywood, starring in several films and earning numerous awards for her contributions to music and film. She is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
Beyond entertainment, Onwenu was active in politics. In 2013, she was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture. She later served as the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
Onwenu’s contributions to Nigerian society have been widely recognized. In 2011, she was awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Various organizations have also acknowledged her as one of the most influential women in Nigeria.
Indeed, Nigerians, particularly the Onyema’s fans and well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond will surely missed her sweet and energetic voice and melody.
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