Nigerian music icon Onyeka Onwenu, known as the “Elegant Stallion,” reportedly collapsed at a private function on Tuesday, July 30, and was later pronounced dead at Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Onwenu was attending the birthday celebration of Mrs. Stella Okoli, founder of Emzor Pharmaceuticals when she took to the stage to perform.
Eyewitnesses said she returned to her seat after her performance and suddenly slumped. Emergency services were immediately called, and she was rushed to the hospital, where she was later declared dead. The exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Born on May 31, 1952, Onwenu was a Nigerian singer/songwriter, actress, human rights activist, journalist, politician, and former X Factor series judge. She had a career that spanned over four decades, working for the United Nations in 1980.
Tweet From Eyewitness
Peter Obi was an eyewitness to the tragic event and narrated the events in these series of tweets.
Life of Impact
Onyeka Onwenu was not just a singer but a cultural icon. Her influence extended beyond her music, as she served as a newsreader and reporter with NTA on her return to Nigeria, and was at a time the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture Chairperson. Her political affiliations, including her membership in the People’s Democratic Party and her role as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development in 2013, further demonstrated her commitment to societal change.
Some of her most famous songs, such as “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe,” continue to resonate with audiences.
Known for her strong will and independence, Onwenu reportedly shared her burial wishes shortly after her 70th birthday in January 2022. She requested a simple and private burial, with a focus on celebrating her life rather than mourning her death. She wanted her family and friends to remember her with prayers, laughter, and shared memories.
That was horrible 😭😭
— Dr. Kenon (@drkenon2) July 31, 2024
“No one knows when the time will be: the quiet inevitable end.”
May her soul rest peacefully. pic.twitter.com/JyUpiahITO
Onwenu was a woman of many parts who positively impacted society. Until her passing, she remained passionate about her home state, Imo, and spoke out against rising insecurity threatening its peaceful and hospitality reputation.
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