Onyeka Onwenu reportedly collapsed after performing at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okolie. She was rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she reportedly passed away.
Emergency responders swiftly arrived and rushed her to the hospital in Victoria Island, where she was later pronounced dead. The cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
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, 72, was a multi-talented artist whose career spanned over four decades. She was not only a singer but also an actress, journalist, and politician.
Her music blended genres like reggae, pop and highlife. It often addressed social and political issues. Some of her most popular songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”
Onwenu was also known for her political activism. She was 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 she was producing a movie chronicling her experiences in the music industry spanning several decades. She expressed her excitement to share her personal story and how Nigerian music has evolved over time.
May her soul rest in peace.
