Onyeka Onwenu, the celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, and broadcaster, has sadly passed away at the age of 72. The iconic figure in Nigerian entertainment died on Tuesday at a hospital in Lagos after collapsing during the 80th birthday celebration of industrialist Stella Okoli.
Eyewitness reports indicate that Onwenu, who had just finished a performance at the event, suddenly slumped and was rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. An eyewitness shared
“It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli today, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital and she couldn’t make it.”
Onwenu recently revealed her involvement in an exciting new film project documenting her illustrious music career, spanning from the 70s to the present day.
“I am currently working on a film that will chronicle my experiences in the music industry from the 70s to the present day. Having been a part of this narrative for decades, I have a wealth of stories to share,” she told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
In addition to the movie, Onwenu had plans to breathe new life into her classic hits through collaborations with emerging artists. She had promised fans a compilation of rebranded songs later in the year.
“I am rebranding my old songs and collaborating with new talents. My aim is to offer listeners a fresh perspective on timeless classics,” she said.
Onyeka Onwenu last performance before her death.
The Legend Onyeka Onwenu, graced the stage one last time last night, singing to guests at a birthday party moments before she passed.
— Oxygist (@oxygist) July 31, 2024
(Onyeka Onwenu Rest in Peace #EndBadGovernaceProtest) pic.twitter.com/ql1Ii0adkO