Legendary Nigerian Music Icon Onyeka Onwenu Laid to Rest in Lagos

A Nation Mourns: Onyeka Onwenu Laid to Rest in Lagos

On Friday, August 30, 2024, the enigmatic presence that was Onyeka Onwenu was interred at the Ebony Vaults and Gardens in Ikoyi, Lagos. The ceremony, marked by solemnity and privacy, mirrored the dignified life lived by one of Nigeria’s most celebrated icons. Onyeka Onwenu’s story is a tapestry interwoven with threads of music, acting, human rights activism, journalism, and a fleeting but impactful foray into politics. The music world has lowered its flags for a luminary whose voice resonated with the unstoppable spirit of an ‘Elegant Stallion’, a nickname endearingly given by the Nigerian press.

Early Life and Tragic Beginnings

Born on January 31, 1952, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to parents who were equally accomplished in their own right, Onwenu's early life was not without tragedy. Losing her father, D.K. Onwenu—a respected Nigerian educationist and politician—at the tender age of four in an auto crash, provided an early brush with grief that would, in a way, define her indomitable spirit. She grew up in Port Harcourt but traced her heritage back to Arondizuogu in Imo State.

Rising Through the Ranks

Onyeka Onwenu’s journey to stardom began with her music career, where she quickly distinguished herself with powerful, resonating vocals and an equally compelling stage presence. Her songs such as ‘One Love,’ ‘You and I,’ and ‘Ekwe’ are culturally significant anthems that have stood the test of time. Her voice, so vibrant and electrifying, commanded attention, earning her widespread accolades and a dedicated following. Yet, her contributions did not stop at music. Onwenu carved out a diversified career that saw her excelling as an actress, a journalist, and an activist.

A Career Beyond Music

Onwenu's career was a mosaic of excellence. Her talents transcended the musical stage into other arenas. In 2013, she was appointed Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development by President Goodluck Jonathan, evidencing her dedication to societal reforms. Before that, she served as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and even competed as a judge on the talent show X Factor, a testament to her multifaceted abilities. Her remarkable activism was perhaps epitomized by her vocal protests against the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) over unpaid royalties, a bold move that won her support from fellow artists and the general public.

An Unwavering Activist and Political Aspirant

Onwenu's passion for societal betterment saw her stepping into the political scene. Aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party, she contended for the Local Council Chairman position in her local government. Though her political journeys had limited success, they underlined her commitment to enacting positive change. It's here that Onwenu showcased her tenacity and a profound sense of responsibility toward her societal roles.

Legacy and Last Days

On July 30, 2024, Nigeria was gripped with sorrow as news broke of Onwenu’s passing at Reddington Hospital in Ikeja, Lagos. She collapsed at a birthday party for Mrs. Stella Okoli, the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, a tragic event leading to her untimely death. In the month before her demise, her contributions were still making waves, echoing the sentiment of a voice that refused to be silenced. Her accolades, including the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011, are testaments to her unparalleled influence.

A Lasting Influence

Onyeka Onwenu's life is a beacon of inspiration. Her protest against unpaid royalties by the NTA, her vigorous activism for human rights, and her relentless political aspirations showcase a woman of grit and grace. Her music, filled with emotive depth, continues to inspire and uplift. From her early life shaped by tragedy to soaring heights of acclaim and the poignant moment of her passing, Onyeka Onwenu’s story remains ingrained in the cultural fabric of Nigeria.

As we bid farewell to the ‘Elegant Stallion,’ her legacy endures, influencing and nurturing future generations. Her life, an artful composition of resilience and passion, continues to resonate in the albums, the legislatures, and the hearts of those who cherish her lasting contributions.