Onyeka Onwenu
Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has passed away.
According to reports, the iconic artist died on Tuesday night after performing at an event in Banana Island, Lagos. She was 72 years old. Onwenu reportedly collapsed after her performance at the birthday celebration of Stella Okoli, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. She was later pronounced dead at a hospital in Victoria Island, as reported by The Guardian Newspaper. Her family has yet to confirm the news.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, Onyeka Onwenu launched her music career in the 1980s with her debut album, “For the Love of You,” released in 1981. Over the years, she released numerous albums and hit singles, including the beloved song “One Love.”
Onwenu was also a celebrated actress in Nollywood and received numerous awards for her contributions to both music and film, making her one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
Beyond her entertainment career, Onwenu was active in politics. She served 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.
Her contributions to Nigerian society earned her several accolades, including the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. Onyeka Onwenu was also recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organizations.
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