Onyeka Onwenu
Ms Onyeka Onwenu, a veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter and actress, has reportedly died at the age of 72.
The iconic singer, according to reports on Tuesday night, was said to have slumped after performing at the birthday ceremony of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals at Banana Island, Lagos.
According to an eye witness, after performing on stage, the iconic singer walked back to her seat, where she slumped. Emergency services were quickly called in and she was rushed to Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos where she was pronounced dead.
“It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli today, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital and she couldn’t make it,” the eye witness said. The cause of death was not known as of press time.
The Guardian Newspaper reports that the legendary singer was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island. However, her family is yet to confirm the death.
Onyeka Onwenu, who was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, also had a career in politics. She served as chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
The legendary singer whose music career began in the 1980s, released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981 and has since released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love.”
Aside from music and her involvement in politics, Onwenu 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.
Onwenu was recognised by the Nigerian government in 2011 with the award of the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). She has also been recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organisations.
Tribune/PM News