A major tragedy struck the Nigerian music industry on Tuesday as celebrated singer Onyeka Onwenu, known for her decades-long contribution to the industry, reportedly passed away following a sudden collapse on Tuesday night.
The singer, born on January 31, 1952, in Lagos, was revered for her powerful voice and philanthropic efforts. She was attending a birthday party in Lagos when the incident occurred.
Onwenu, who was performing at the birthday celebration of Stella Okoli, the founder and chief executive of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, reportedly took to the stage and delivered a memorable performance.
Immediately after her performance, Onwenu returned to her seat, only to suddenly slump and lose consciousness.
Despite immediate efforts to help, she was rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Lagos, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.
With a career spanning back to the 1970s, she was a trailblazer in Nigerian music, earning her the affectionate title of the “elegant stallion.”
In recent months, Onwenu had been actively working on a new project that sought to chronicle her extensive experiences in the music industry.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) earlier this week, she shared her excitement about producing a film that would detail her career from the 1970s to the present day.
“I am currently working on a film that will chronicle my experiences in the music industry from the 70s to the present day. Having been a part of this narrative for decades, I have a wealth of stories to share,” she said.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Onwenu was also deeply committed to philanthropy. She recently released a single titled “Abu Otito (Songs of Praise),” with proceeds dedicated to supporting widows through the Rose of Sharon Foundation.
Her charitable efforts extended to education, as she was passionate about providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children.
Onwenu’s contributions included paying school fees directly and offering civic education to foster cultural identity among students in Abia and plans to expand her initiatives to Imo.
Her music has left an indelible mark on Nigerian culture. Onwenu’s duet with King Sunny Ade, “Wait for Me,” remains an iconic piece of music history, addressing population explosion and family planning issues.
Her song “African Woman” celebrated the resilience and beauty of African women, empowering them amidst adversity. Additionally, her classic “Sodom and Gomorrah” is remembered for its biblical narrative and moral lessons.
Onwenu’s other timeless tracks, such as “Iyogogo,” “One Love,” “Dancing in the Sun,” and “Choices,” further showcase her versatility and enduring influence.
Her music not only entertained but also inspired and educated, making her a beloved figure across generations.
