Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, recounted the last moments of legendary singer Onyeka Onwenu before her sudden demise on July 30.
News About Nigeria recalls that Onwenu had slumped and died after her performance at the 80th birthday of the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli.
The legendary singer who died at the age of 72 was laid to rest in Lagos today with family and friends, including dignitaries like Obi, the Governor of Abia, and Alex Otti, among others, in attendance.
Speaking after her burial in a post on his X account, the former Anambra State Governor prayed for the repose of the soul of the dead.
Obi also eulogised Onwenu, saying she was a national treasure who had the interest of the nation at heart and was able to show it through her songs.
He wrote, “Today in Lagos, I joined family, friends and other mourners to pay my last respects to the late iconic song star, my very dear elder sister, Onyeka Onwenu, who was laid to rest. I still recall, with pain, her final moments before she took the final bow on 30th July, all of which I completely witnessed. 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.”