The shocking death of Nigeria’s music legend, Onyeka Onwenu, popularly dubbed as the “Elegant Stallion”, has drawn expressions of grief and heartfelt condolences from different quarters, mourning the death of an iconic figure in the Nigerian music industry.
Onwenu reportedly collapsed after performing at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okolie, Chief Executive Officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, on Tuesday.
She was said to have been rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she reportedly passed away.
A source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceuticals tonight. After performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital but couldn’t make it.”
Onwenu was born in 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State.
She began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981.
She has since released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song, “One Love”.
Onwenu has also acted in several Nollywood films and won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film.
In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu has also been involved in politics.
She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
She was awarded the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Read some of the tributes:
@akintollgate
With a heavy heart, I am forced to come to terms with the passing of an icon Madam Onyeka Onwenu. I grew up listening to her music in the 80’s and I remember meeting her at a concert at the Shell Club RA in 1988.
She left an impression on me that carried on for decades. Her records were a favorite during family road trips in the 80’s and early 90’s whenever we travelled between east & west. In September 2018, I was blessed to have her come onboard as a Brand Ambassador for @HouseofLunettes and she said to me “Akin just tell me whatever you need, I am here to support you”.
She was a sweet soul, full of life and left a trace of joy in every room she walked into.
Madam Onyeka Onwenu the Diva Extraordinaire, you are in the presence of the stars and heaven has gained another Angel. Rest well Icon! 🕊️
She came, she lived and she impacted her era. A multi talented woman who did so many things with excellence. RIP ONYEKA.