Renowned Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72.
According to reports, the legendary artist collapsed Tuesday night after performing at an event on Banana Island, Lagos. Onwenu was attending a birthday celebration for Stella Okoli, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.
Following her collapse, she was taken to a hospital on Victoria Island, where she was pronounced dead, as reported by YEPS.NG. Her family has yet to issue an official confirmation of her passing.
Beyond her illustrious career in the arts, Onyeka Onwenu also had a notable presence in politics. She served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and held the position of Director-General at the National Centre for Women Development.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, Onwenu launched her music career in the 1980s with her debut album, “For the Love of You,” released in 1981. She continued to make a significant impact with her music, including the popular song “One Love.”
In addition to her musical achievements, Onwenu appeared in numerous Nollywood films and received numerous awards for her work in both music and film. She is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
Her contributions to society have also been recognized; she was awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011 and has been acknowledged as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organizations.