Renowned Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has died at the age of 72.
Reports indicate that she collapsed after performing at a birthday event for Stella Okoli, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, in Banana Island, Lagos, on Tuesday night.
The Guardian Newspaper reported that Onwenu was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island. As of now, her family has not officially confirmed her passing.
In addition to her illustrious career in the arts, Onwenu made significant contributions to Nigerian politics. She served as Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and was later appointed Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, Onyeka Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s, releasing her debut album, For the Love of You, in 1981. She went on to release numerous albums and singles, including the acclaimed hit “One Love.”
Onwenu also achieved notable success in Nollywood, earning recognition and awards for her contributions to music and film. She was celebrated as a pioneer of Nigerian music and was honored with the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. Various organizations have recognized her as one of Nigeria’s most influential women.
