Nigerians have taken to social media to mourn the passing of the iconic Nollywood singer, actor, and journalist Onyeka Onwenu, who passed away at the age of 72.
News About Nigeria reported that the beloved artist died on Tuesday night after performing at an event in Banana Island, Lagos.
Sources indicate that Onwenu collapsed shortly after her performance at the birthday celebration of Stella Okoli, the owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.
She was immediately rushed to a hospital on Victoria Island, where she was pronounced dead.
Fans and admirers flooded social media platforms with tributes, remembering Onwenu for her contributions to their childhoods in the 1980s and 1990s through her iconic music and performances.
Many praised her immense talent and expressed their sadness at her passing.
Some of the reactions on social media include:
Onwenu was widely celebrated, not just for her artistic talents but also for her contributions to journalism and her work as a public servant.
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, including Genevieve Nnaji’s Lion Heart, and has won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film.
She has been recognised as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
The veteran actress and singer also served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development. She later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
Onwenu has been recognised for her contributions to Nigerian society, including being awarded the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
She has also been recognised as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organisations.
The actress and singer will be missed by many Nigerians, including her fans.
Her family has, however, yet to confirm the report.
