The entertainment industry and Nigeria at large has been mourning the passing of Veteran Nigerian Singer, songwriter and actress, known as the Elegant Stallion, Onyeka Onwenu who died on Tuesday night after performing at an event at Banana Island, Lagos.
She was age 72. The Nigerian singer was reported to have slumped after performing at the birthday ceremony of owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs. Stella Okoli, and was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island according to reports.
Onyeka Onwenu was born in 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria and began her music career in the 1980s with the release of her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. With numerous albums and singles to her name, the most memorable has been the hit song “One Love.”
The veteran singer and performer has acted in several Nollywood films, won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film industries with recognition as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
Onwenu has had a bit of involvement in politics with an appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later, the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
She has recieved recognition for her contributions to Nigerian society, including the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. She has also been recognised as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organisations.
Tributes
In his tribute to Onwenu, President Tinubu called her a "versatile and extremely gifted artiste" who brought joy and laughter to many.
Fellow musician Charly Boy said Onwenu's impact transcended the entertainment industry".
"RIP Ma Onyeka Onwenu," award-winning musical duo P-Square posted on social media platform X.
Born in 1952, Onyeka outside of the entertainment industry, including broadcasting, activism and politics.
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