Onyeka Onwenu: 10 things to know about ace singer
Image Source: Punch
The Nigerian entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of legendary singer and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, who passed away at the age of 72 on the evening of July 30, 2024, at Reddington Hospital in Lagos.
The news came after she collapsed at the birthday party of Mrs. Stella Okoli, where she had just performed.
According to a report by TheNiche, an eyewitness at the event stated that Onwenu slumped just after her performance. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she was declared dead shortly after arrival. However, at the time of publication, her family has yet to make a statement on her passing.
Onyeka Onwenu’s life and career were marked by significant achievements across various fields. Here are ten things to know about her:
1. Early Life: Born on January 31, 1952, in Arondizuogu, Imo State, Onwenu was the daughter of a politician, D.K. Onwenu and was deeply influenced by her father’s career and legacy.
2. Educational Background: Onwenu was well-educated, having attended the Wellesley College in Massachusetts (B.A.) and The New School for Social Research, New York. (M.A.)
3. Music Career: She began her musical journey in the 1980s and became known for blending contemporary and traditional African music. Some of her famous songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe”.
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4. Acting: Onwenu had a prolific career in Nollywood, featuring in notable films like “Half of a Yellow Sun,” “Lionheart,” and “Conspiracy.”
5. Journalism: Before fully venturing into music, Onwenu worked as a journalist and was known for her BBC/NTA documentary, “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches,” which criticized corruption and environmental issues in Nigeria.
6. Activism: She was a vocal human rights activist, particularly focusing on women’s rights and social justice. She protested against the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) over unpaid royalties for airing her songs, leading to a hunger strike and an eventual agreement.
7. Political Involvement: Onwenu was an active member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and held several political positions, including the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and the Executive Director of the National Centre for Women’s Development.
8. Awards and Honours: Over her career, she received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to music, film, and social causes.
9. Nickname: She was affectionately known as “The Elegant Stallion” due to her poise and grace in the entertainment industry.
10. Personal Life: Onwenu was private about her personal life but is known to have two children. She often kept her family matters out of the public eye.
Onyeka Onwenu leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by many. Her contributions to music, film, and activism have made a lasting impact on Nigerian culture and beyond. She will be deeply missed by fans and colleagues alike.