Onyeka Onwenu, the iconic Nigerian singer, actress, and activist, passed away on Tuesday night after performing at an event in Banana Island, Lagos. She was 72 years old.
Known as the “Elegant Stallion,” Onwenu’s life and career spanned multiple facets of entertainment and public service, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
As we mourn her loss, here are 15 things you should know about this legendary figure:
- Birth and Early Life: Onyeka Onwenu was born on January 31, 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria. She was raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after the untimely death of her father, D.K. Onwenu, a respected politician and educationist, who died in a car accident when she was just four years old.
- Education: Onwenu pursued higher education in the United States, earning a bachelor’s degree in international relations and communication from Wellesley College, Massachusetts. She furthered her studies at The New School in New York.
- Journalism and Activism: Upon her return to Nigeria, Onwenu started her career as a journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). She gained recognition for her investigative journalism and for producing the powerful documentary, Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches, which highlighted corruption in the country’s oil sector.
- Music Career: Onyeka Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s and quickly became a household name. She released numerous albums blending highlife, pop, and gospel genres, with hit songs like “One Love” and “You and I” that resonated with millions.
- Nollywood Contributions: Beyond music, Onwenu made a significant impact in Nollywood, starring in numerous films and television series. Notable roles include her performances in Half of a Yellow Sun, Lionheart, and Muna, where she showcased her versatility as an actress.
- Political Aspirations: Onwenu was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and twice contested unsuccessfully for the position of Local Council Chairman in her local government. Despite the setbacks, she remained active in public service and was appointed Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture.
- Human Rights Activism: Known for her strong sense of justice, Onwenu was an outspoken advocate for human rights, particularly women’s rights. Her activism extended to participating in a hunger strike in 2000, protesting against her former employer, NTA, for withholding royalties and blacklisting her music.
- Cultural Influence: Onyeka Onwenu’s influence extended beyond entertainment. Her collaboration with King Sunny Ade on the hit song “Wait for Me” in 1984 was part of a public health campaign promoting responsible family planning and safe sex, a bold initiative for the time.
- Personal Life: Onwenu was known for keeping her personal life private. She was married to a Yoruba Muslim and had two sons, Tijani Charles and Abraham. Despite widespread speculation, she consistently denied rumors of a romantic relationship with fellow musician Fela Kuti, maintaining that their relationship was purely professional.
- National Recognition: In recognition of her contributions to the arts and her activism, Onyeka Onwenu was awarded national honors by Nigeria in 2003 and 2011. These accolades reflected her standing as a respected figure in Nigerian society.
- Autobiography: In 2021, Onwenu published her autobiography, My Father’s Daughter, where she shared intimate details of her life, including her relationship with her father, her career, and her experiences as a woman in the entertainment industry.
- Legacy in Music: Onyeka Onwenu transitioned to gospel music in the 1990s, where she continued to inspire with her powerful voice and message-driven songs. Her music remains a staple in Nigerian households, symbolizing unity and love.
- The Elegant Stallion: The nickname “Elegant Stallion” was given to Onwenu by the Nigerian press, a testament to her graceful yet commanding presence on stage and in public life. She embodied strength, elegance, and resilience throughout her career.
- Philanthropy: Onwenu was also known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes, including education, health, and women’s empowerment. Her charitable work further solidified her legacy as a beloved and respected figure.
- Final Performance and Legacy: Onyeka Onwenu’s final performance was at a private party in Lagos, where she showcased the same passion and energy that had defined her career. Her sudden passing left a void in the hearts of many, but her legacy lives on through her music, films, and the countless lives she touched.
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Onyeka Onwenu’s life was a mosaicof achievements, struggles, and triumphs. As we remember the “Elegant Stallion,” we celebrate her contributions to Nigerian culture, her unwavering spirit, and the powerful legacy she leaves behind.