The legendary singer reportedly sang at a gathering on Banana Island, Lagos, on Tuesday night. She was seventy-two. It was reported that Onwenu had collapsed during her performance at Emzor Pharmaceuticals’ owner Stella Okoli’s birthday celebration. Later on, a Victoria Island hospital confirmed her death.
Her family has not yet confirmed her passing. In addition to her artistic career, Onyeka Onwenu pursued a career in politics. She held the positions of director general of the National Centre for Women Development and chair of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture.
In 1952, Onyeka Onwenu was born in Obosi, Nigeria’s Anambra State. Her first album, “For the Love of You,” was published in 1981. She started her musical career in the 1980s. Since then, she has put out a number of albums and songs, including the popular tune “One Love.”
In addition, Onwenu has acted in a number of Nollywood productions and received multiple honours for her achievements in both music and film. She is acknowledged as one of Nigerian music’s forerunners.
Onwenu has pursued a career in entertainment in addition to politics. She joined the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 as its chairperson, and in 2016 she was named director general of the National Centre for Women Development.
In 2011, Onwenu received recognition for her services to Nigerian society, including the National Honours designation of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Numerous groups have also named her as one of Nigeria’s most powerful women.
