The Nigerian music and entertainment industry mourns as the beloved Onyeka Onwenu fondly referred to as the “Elegant Stallion,” is set to be laid to rest today in Lagos, Apples Bite Magazine reports. A renowned icon in the Nigerian music scene, Onwenu’s life and career have left an indelible mark on the nation.
Born on January 31, 1952, in Arondizuogu, Imo State, Onyeka Onwenu was not just a singer but also a songwriter, actress, politician, and activist. Her influence spanned multiple domains, making her one of Nigeria’s most versatile and cherished figures. She began her career as a tour guide at the United Nations in New York before returning to Nigeria, where she made significant contributions to the broadcasting industry by producing impactful documentaries like Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches in 1984.
Onwenu transitioned from secular to gospel music, earning acclaim for her deep, soulful voice and her ability to convey powerful messages through her songs. Her music, including albums like In the Morning Light and One Love, has been celebrated for its positive social impact. She also collaborated with other music legends, such as King Sunny Ade, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the industry.
Her career in Nollywood was equally illustrious, with performances in films like Half of a Yellow Sun and Lionheart. In 2006, she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role, demonstrating her talent across multiple art forms.
Onyeka Onwenu passed away on July 30, 2024, at 72. Her burial today at the Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi, Lagos, follows a Service of Songs at the Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, where she worshipped for many years. The service is attended by numerous friends, family members, and fans, who gather to celebrate her life and legacy. Among those she is expected to reunite with in the afterlife are her close friends and pastors, Bimbo and Taiwo Odukoya.
Onwenu’s contributions to Nigeria’s cultural industry, her advocacy for women’s rights, and her legacy as an artist and public figure will continue to inspire generations to come.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
