Nigerians Mourn Late Iconic Singer, Onyeka Onwenu

Nigerian music legend Onyeka Onwenu has passed away at the age of 72. The singer, songwriter, broadcaster, and actress collapsed and died shortly after performing at a birthday party in Lagos on July 30, 2024.
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The news of Onwenu’s sudden death comes as a shock to many as she performed hours before her passing. Nigerians have taken to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to the iconic performer.

Akinwumi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank Group and former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture, shared his condolences on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Adieu Onyeka Onwenu, Nigeria’s music legend, broadcaster, actress and social activist,” Adesina wrote. “Your brilliance, poise, impeccable works and professional candour marked your stardom. You were proudly Nigerian. Thank you for your incredible contributions to Nigeria. May your soul rest in peace.”

Other Nigerians on X echoed Adesina’s sentiments, with one user, @LaReina4602582, posting throwback videos of Onwenu and recalling a personal encounter. “She was an icon. A visionary. A journalist and a musical genius,” the user wrote. “I remember meeting her when we went to her place. She said ‘Umu umu Joseph bukwa spec,’ which means ‘Joseph’s grandkids are specs.’ I am so sad about her demise. Rest on, ONYEKA ONWENU.”
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Another user, @amiablechichi, simply expressed, “Gosh, she was so energetic and full of life. May her soul rest in peace.”

Additionally, the outpouring of grief and admiration for Onwenu’s legacy was evident across the platform.

X users @jon_d_doe and @Chiithecreative shared their heartfelt tributes. “Nigeria has truly lost a legend. Onyeka Onwenu will forever be in our hearts,” wrote @jon_d_doe. “The last time I watched her perform was at one of the AY shows. No one was sitting as she performed. This one touched our soul as a nation. 72 years well lived. Rest in peace.”
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@Chiithecreative, on the other hand, chose to celebrate Onwenu’s life, saying, “I choose today to celebrate Onyeka Onwenu, for her life of purpose & service, always fashionable, till her last living moments. I remember being star-struck when I saw her at Calabar airport, where I was serving several years ago. She was so warm & embraced me. Go well, mama.”

The singer slumped and died shortly after performing at a birthday party in Lagos on July 30, 2024.

According to sources close to the family, Onwenu was attending a friend’s birthday celebration when she rendered a performance.

Immediately after her performance, she returned to her seat and suddenly collapsed. Emergency services were quickly called, and she was rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, where she was later pronounced dead.
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