Nigerian music legend, Onyeka Onwenu, known as the “Elegant Stallion,” has been laid to rest in Lagos.
The artiste died on July 30, 2024, at Reddington Hospital, Ikeja, after collapsing at an event honouring the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Dr Stella Okoli.
The funeral service of the late musician was held at the Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju area of Lagos on Friday which was later followed by a private burial at a vault in Ikoyi.
Onwenu had slumped after an impressive performance at Stella Okoli’s birthday party in Lagos on July 30.
The legendary singer was then rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Lagos, where she passed on.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi and other dignitaries attended the funeral service.
In his tribute after the burial, Peter Obi hailed late Onwenu as a national treasure who believed in united and progressive Nigeria.
“Late Onyeka Onwenu remained a national treasure, who believed in a more united and progressive Nigeria. In her last performance on stage before the tragic incident that fateful day, she sang her popular song, “One Love Keep Us Together”, and this bears significant testament to her belief while she lived here on earth.
“Once again, I like to extend my condolences to her children, family, friends, loved ones, and all of us, during this difficult time. May we all find the strength and courage to bear her sad irreplaceable loss. May God grant her eternal rest and protect, and bless her family always,” Obi said in a post on his X handle.
Onyeka Onwenu was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria. 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 has won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film. She has been recognised as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
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.
Onwenu has been recognised for her contributions to the Nigerian society, including being awarded the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
