Three years ago, veteran Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu shared her thoughts on how she wished to be remembered and buried. Known for her powerful voice and activism, the beloved artist reportedly passed away on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at Mrs. Stella Okoli’s birthday party.
In an opinion piece published in Premium Times in 2021, Onwenu expressed her desire for a simple and private burial. “Do it quickly, quietly, and privately,” she wrote, emphasizing her preference for a low-key ceremony without unnecessary fanfare. She encouraged her loved ones to mourn but not excessively, suggesting instead that they celebrate her life with prayers, shared meals, and light-hearted moments.
“Celebrate me with prayers, lunch or dinner afterwards. Share some jokes about me and laugh. Make merriment and then go about your business,” Onwenu stated. She also expressed her wish for any celebrations in her honor to take place while she was still alive, so she could enjoy them with friends.
In her reflection, Onwenu critiqued the cultural practice of lavish burials in Nigeria, particularly during times of economic hardship for many. She contrasted her own wishes with the extravagant funeral of Obi Cubana’s mother, which had sparked nationwide discussion. “I am very uncomfortable with the lavish display of wealth on any occasion, especially in a time of hardship and lack for most others,” she remarked, advocating for more modest and meaningful ways to honor the deceased.
Onwenu’s multifaceted career spanned music, film, advocacy, journalism, and politics. She held various significant roles, including chairing the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and serving as a judge on the X Factor series. Her contributions to the arts and society were widely recognized, with notable songs like “One Love” and “You and I.” She also authored an autobiography titled *My Father’s Daughter*.