Veteran Nigerian Singer, Onyeka Onwenu Dies At 72

Legendary Nigerian singer, actress, and songwriter Onyeka Onwenu is dead.

Infoexpert24 understands that the singer died Tuesday night after performing at an event at Banana Island, Lagos. She was 72.

According to reports, she slumped after performing at the birthday ceremony of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.

She was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island though Her family is yet to confirm the death.

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. She has since released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love.”

Onwenu has also acted in several Nollywood films and has won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film. She has been recognised as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.

In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu has also been involved in politics. She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.

Onwenu has been recognized for her contributions to Nigerian society, including being awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. She has also been recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organisations

Things to know about the late Onwenu:

Early Life and Education: She attended Wellesley College in Massachusetts, USA, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Communication.

Music Career: Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s, becoming known as the “Elegant Stallion.” She has released several albums, blending genres like highlife, pop, and gospel. Some of her popular songs include “One Love” and “You and I.”

Acting Career: She has also made a significant mark in Nollywood, starring in numerous films and television series. Half of a Yellow Sun, Lion Heart, Muna, and many others.

Politics: Onwenu ventured into politics, serving as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture.

Advocacy and Humanitarian Work: She is an advocate for women’s rights and has been involved in various humanitarian efforts, focusing on issues like maternal health and child welfare.

Awards and Recognition: Onwenu has received numerous awards for her contributions to music, acting, and public service.

Legacy: Known for her powerful voice and stage presence, Onwenu remains an influential figure in Nigerian entertainment and culture.

Onwenu: politics, activism

Onwenu is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. She has contested twice to become the Local Council Chairman of her local government and lost at both attempts, but was appointed Chairperson of Imo State Council for Arts and Culture by former Governor Ikedi Ohakim.

On September 16, 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed her the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.

She was awarded the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) for her contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Also, she received the award of the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

In 2000, Onwenu protested against her former employer NTA over their refusal to pay royalties on her songs and after then-director general Ben Murray-Bruce blacklisted her from the transmission, she embarked on a hunger strike outside the stations.

Onwenu’s activism attracted widespread support from various artists, including Charly Boy, who lambasted Nigeria’s reluctance to pay royalties when songs are broadcast on television and radio. NTA resolved to settle the issue amicably but denied barring Onwenu from appearing on their channels.

She made a very touching viral BBC short documentary about Nigeria 40 years ago, where she stated that nothing seems to have changed in how we manage our economy, politics, leadership, etc. It’s like Nigeria has been in a cycle since Independence. It was titled, “A Squandering of Riches.”

Onwenu notably keeps her personal life private and often refuses to disclose private information regarding her ex-husband, a Yoruba Muslim, with whom she bore two children – Tijani Charles and Abraham.

Onwenu, Fela’s rumoured saga

Onwenu and Fela Kuti, two iconic figures in Nigerian music, were often the subject of rumours regarding a romantic relationship.

Despite the widespread speculation, Onyeka Onwenu has consistently denied any romantic involvement with Fela Kuti.

She also said this in a viral podcast

Also, in her autobiography “My Father’s Daughter,” she addressed these rumours directly, clarifying that while she had great respect for Fela and admired his musical talent and activism, their relationship was purely professional and based on mutual respect.

She acknowledged that they collaborated and shared common goals in their advocacy for social and political change in Nigeria, but any suggestions of a romantic relationship were unfounded.

This clarification helped to put the longstanding rumours to rest, focusing attention instead on their significant contributions to Nigerian music and culture.

Onwenu, Sunny Ade collaborations

Onyeka Onwenu had a notable collaboration with King Sunny Ade, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated musicians. Their professional relationship was marked by the release of the hit song “Wait for Me” in 1984, which became a significant success in Nigeria.

“Wait for Me” was more than just a song; it was part of a public health campaign aimed at promoting responsible family planning and safe sex.

The duet highlighted the chemistry between Onwenu and Sunny Ade, blending her soulful voice with his distinctive juju music style.

Their collaboration brought attention to important social issues and showcased the power of music as a tool for advocacy and education.