Veteran Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at 72. She collapsed after performing at a birthday party and was taken to Reddington Hospital, Lagos, where she was pronounced dead. Known as "The Elegant Stallion," Onwenu was a celebrated musician and advocate for women's rights.
Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72. Ms. Onwenu, renowned as "The Elegant Stallion," reportedly died on Tuesday evening at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos. She collapsed shortly after performing at the birthday celebration of Mrs. Stella Okoli.
An eyewitness at the event confirmed the tragic incident, stating, "It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli today, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital and she couldn’t make it."
Born on January 31, 1952, Onyeka Onwenu's illustrious career spanned music, politics, and activism. She served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and, in 2013, was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.
Onwenu was celebrated for her many hit songs, including the popular duet "Wait for Me" with Juju maestro King Sunny Ade. Her contributions to the music industry and her advocacy for women's rights and social issues earned her a lasting legacy.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official confirmation from her family regarding her death.
Onwenu's death is a significant loss to the Nigerian entertainment industry and the nation at large, leaving behind a rich legacy of music, cultural impact, and social advocacy.
