Nigeria has bid farewell to one of its most cherished cultural icons, Onyeka Onwenu, as she was laid to rest on Friday.
The legendary musician, actress, broadcaster, politician, and activist passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 72.
Onwenu passed away at Reddington Hospital in Ikeja after collapsing during an event honoring Dr. Stella Okoli, the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. News of her death sent shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond, with tributes pouring in from all corners of the world.
A funeral service was held at the Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos, attended by a host of dignitaries, celebrities, and admirers. Following the service, Onyeka Onwenu was laid to rest in a private burial at a vault in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Among the attendees at the solemn ceremony were Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, and Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, who both came to pay their final respects to the late icon.
Onwenu was not only a pioneering musician with numerous hits but also a broadcaster, actress, and a vocal advocate for women’s rights and social justice. Her contributions to the arts and her fearless activism have left an indelible mark on the nation.
Onyeka Onwenu is survived by her two sons, who, along with countless fans and admirers, continue to mourn the loss of a remarkable woman whose legacy will inspire future generations.