Nigerian Veteran Singer Onyeka Onwenu Dies at 72

Renowned 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, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.

She was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital on Victoria Island, as reported by local media. Her family has yet to release an official statement regarding her death.

Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Onyeka Onwenu launched her music career in the 1980s with her debut album “For the Love of You” in 1981. She went on to release numerous albums and singles, including the popular track “One Love.” Onwenu was celebrated as a trailblazer in the Nigerian music industry.

In addition to her successful music career, Onwenu was a prominent actress in Nollywood, earning several awards for her contributions to film and music.

Her work in entertainment was widely recognized and celebrated.

Beyond entertainment, Onwenu was 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 acknowledged, and in 2011, she was awarded the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Various organizations also recognized her as one of Nigeria’s most influential women.

 

Report by Fatimah Ibrahim

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