The music world was rocked by tragedy on Tuesday night as the legendary Nigerian singer and songwriter Onyeka Onwenu passed away shortly after performing at a birthday party in Lagos. Onwenu, affectionately known as the “Elegant Stallion,” collapsed shortly after her performance and was pronounced dead at Reddington Hospital.
Sources close to the family report that Onwenu was attending a friend’s birthday celebration when she took to the stage. Following her performance, she returned to her seat but suddenly collapsed. Emergency services were summoned, and she was rushed to the hospital on Victoria Island, where she was later declared deceased. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
An anonymous source shared their grief, saying, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday party of Mrs. Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceuticals this night. After performing, she slumped and was taken to Reddington Hospital, but unfortunately, she couldn’t make it.”
Born on May 31, 1952, Onyeka Onwenu was a multifaceted artist whose career spanned over four decades. In addition to being a celebrated singer and songwriter, she was also an actress, journalist, and politician. Her music, which seamlessly blended genres such as highlife, reggae, and pop, often addressed social and political issues. Some of her most acclaimed songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”
Beyond her musical achievements, Onwenu was known for her political activism. She served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and was appointed Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.
Earlier this year, Onwenu revealed plans to produce a film detailing her experiences over decades in the music industry. She was also preparing to release a compilation of rebranded versions of her iconic songs, which was expected later this year. It remains unclear whether the film or the song compilation was completed prior to her death.
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