Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72.
Reports indicate that Onwenu collapsed Tuesday night after performing at an event in Banana Island, Lagos. She was attending the birthday celebration of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, when the incident occurred. Onwenu was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island, according to The Guardian. Her family has yet to issue an official statement.
Onyeka Onwenu, born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, began her music career in the 1980s. She released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981 and gained fame with hits like “One Love.” In addition to her music career, Onwenu also made significant contributions to Nollywood and won numerous awards for her work in both music and film.
Beyond the arts, Onwenu was active in politics, serving as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and later as the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development. She was honored with the National Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011 and recognized as one of Nigeria’s most influential women by various organizations.
Onwenu’s death marks the end of an era for Nigerian music and culture, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering contributions to the arts and society.
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