The children of veteran Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu have announced her passing, sharing details about her final moments.
“It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu,” her children wrote in a statement signed by her sons, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende on Wednesday.
“She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed, they said.
Her children described their mother as an “icon and legend” who inspired multiple generations with her music, acting, philanthropy and humanitarian efforts.
“She is greatly loved and missed!” they added.
The family expressed their gratitude to those who supported Onyeka in her final moments, including “Mr. Peter Obi, Mr and Mrs John Momoh and Mr and Mrs Okonkwo as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr Okpara all of whom were with her during her last moments.
Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage.”
They added, “We are also appreciative of Reddington Hospital and all their staff for their efforts.
“As we take the time to make the necessary plans, we would like you all to take the time to remember her life, the contributions she made and the impact she made on so many lives, including ours.”
The renowned singer was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State. She released her debut album, ‘For the Love of You,’ in 1981 and has since released several albums and singles, including her hit song ‘One Love.’
Tinubu, Orji Uzor Kalu, Shehu Sani, Omokri Mourn Late Singer
President Bola Tinubu, former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, former Kaduna lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, and ex-presidential aide, Reno Omokri, have mourned the legendary Nigerian singer and actress, Onyeka Onwenu.
Tinubu in a statement by his Special Adviser Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngalale, said Ms. Onwenu “lives on in her immortal masterpieces”.
The statement reads, “President Bola Tinubu extends his profound condolences to the family of the late Ms. Onyeka Onwenu.
“Ms. Onwenu was a singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, activist, and politician.
“President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition, ‘One Love’, in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
“The President recalls the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting public good, noting her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me’, a melodic campaign on family planning in the 1980s.
“President Tinubu celebrates the life of the versatile and extremely gifted artiste who applied herself to the whole gamut of artistic enterprise and expression, bringing joy and laughter to many.
“The President condoles with the entertainment industry, the Imo State Government, and the numerous fans of the departed star over this immeasurable loss.
“President Tinubu prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased artiste and that she finds a place yonder where the music never fades and where there is ‘Dancing in the Sun’.
“The President states that Ms. Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces.”
Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatization and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu described the demise of Onyeka Onwenu as a big loss to the nation.
Kalu who acknowledged the contributions of the song writer and human rights activist to nation building, noted that the late renowned singer left behind worthy legacies for her family and loved ones to uphold.
The former Governor while noting that the late actress was a rallying and reference point for the womenfolk, urged family members of the deceased to take solace in the fact that the late politician lived a purposeful life.
In a condolence message, Kalu commiserated with the government and people of Imo state over the sad loss.
He said, ” I mourn the passing of iconic musician and human rights activist, Onyeka Onwenu.
“She was a talented writer, singer and actress who used her skills to advance the cause of the people.
“The late singer was known for her forthrightness, boldness, humility and patriotism.
“Her works in the field of entertainment earned her global recognition.
“She lived a purposeful life committed to the service of God and humanity”.
Kalu prayed for eternal rest for the late musician.
Reacting to the development in an X post on Wednesday, Sani said the country has lost a great artist who spread messages of love and peace through her music.
He wrote, “Onyeka, the nation has lost a timeless legend and a great artist who sang from the heart, spreading the messages of love and peace through music. Your melodies will forever resonate in our souls. Rest in peace.”
Also reacting in an X post, Omokri described Onwenu as an elegant stallion, saying that she elevated music and artistry with her natural charm and stage presence.
He wrote, “I am heartbroken at the news of the death of veteran singer, broadcaster, and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, at 72. I knew her, and we bonded over my love for her music, which added value to my early years. It was one of the greatest honours of my life to collaborate with her and Panam Percy Paul on a charity single I executive produced.
“She was called the elegant stallion for a reason. And the reason is that she elevated music and artistry with her natural charm and stage presence.
“Onyeka Onwenu was a great asset to Nigeria and a significant star on the African continent and beyond. She will be greatly missed. May her soul rest in peace! Onyeka Onwenu: January 31, 1952-July 31, 2024: Gone but never to be forgotten.”
