Nigerian social media space has been alive since Tuesday night following the demise of legendary singer, Onyeka Onwenu who died shortly after performing at a private birthday party for prominent pharmaceutical entrepreneur, Stella Okoli, in Lagos.
The veteran singer, songwriter, broadcaster, actress and politician, reportedly died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos after falling ill at a birthday party.
βVery sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at Mrs. Stella Okoliβs birthday party today (Tuesday, July 30, 2024), and after performing, he was devastated.
βOnwenu was attending a friendβs birthday party when he went on stage to perform. Shortly after returning to his seat, he suddenly fainted.
βEmergency responders arrived quickly and took him to hospital on Victoria Island, where he was later pronounced dead,β the source said.
A multi-talented artist whose career spans more than four decades, Onwenu is not only a singer but also an actress, journalist and politician.
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His music is a mix of genres ranging from reggae, pop, highlife, and local folklore which he uses to discuss social and political issues.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Onwenu began his musical career in the 1980s and released his debut album, βFor the Love of You,β in 1981. He went on to release numerous albums and singles, including the hits βOne Love,β βIyogogo,β and βEkwe.β
She is also known for her political activism and was once the chairman of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and the Executive Director/Chief Executive of the National Centre for Women Development.
As an actress, she appeared in high-profile films including Half of a Yellow Sun, and Lions Heart, among others.
Onwenu was recognized for his contributions to Nigerian society including being awarded the National Award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Nigerians mourn the death of legendary singer and broadcaster, Onyeka Onwenu first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.