Onyeka Onwenu (file image)
Peter Obi, Alex Otti mourn Onyeka Onwenu
By Valentine Amanze
The children of the legendry Nigerian musician and and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, have confirmed her death after a musical show in Lagos.
The family confirmed Onwenu’s death in a statement issued by her sons, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende, on Tuesday July 30, 2024.
“It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu.
“She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria,” they said.
Onwenu, it was gathered, had completed a performance at the birthday party of the Lagos-based phamarcist, Mrs Stella Okoli, when she was suddenly rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Lagos.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed,” the children confirmed in the statement.
Her children described their mother as an “icon and legend,” who inspired multiple generations with her music, acting, philanthropy and humanitarian efforts.
Also read: Honour @92, Mike Ejeagha’s 41-yr-old song goes viral
The family expressed its gratitude to those who supported Onyeka in her final moments, including “Mr. Peter Obi, Mr and Mrs John Momoh and Mr and Mrs Okonkwo as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr Okpara all of whom were with her during her last moments.
“Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage.”
The family added, “We are also appreciative of Reddington Hospital and all their staff for their efforts.
“As we take the time to make the necessary plans, we would like you all to take the time to remember her life, the contributions she made and the impact she made on so many lives, including ours.”
The renowned singer was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State.
Onwenu, who released her debut album, ‘For the Love of You,’ in 1981 and has since released several albums and singles, including her hit song, ‘One Love,’ schooled at Amumara Girls Secondary School, Mbaise.
valoa2000@yahoo.com
