Singer and activist Charly Boy, Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti, and “Galala” singer Daddy Showkey have all paid tribute to the late Onyeka Onwenu, whose passing has deeply affected the Nigerian entertainment and cultural sectors.
Charly Boy honored Onwenu as an iconic figure whose influence extended beyond the entertainment industry. In his tribute, he said, “The Igbo nation mourns the loss of this iconic figure, whose impact transcended the entertainment industry. Onwenu’s death follows the recent passings of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, marking a period of profound loss for the southeast region of Nigeria. Onwenu’s legacy as a cherished talent and tireless advocate will continue to inspire future generations. Oh! My sister, Rest In Peace.”
Femi Kuti expressed his shock and sorrow, remembering Onwenu’s beautiful voice. He wrote, “Shocked, waking up to very sad news of the passing of Mrs Onyeka Onwenu. Rest in peace Ma, your beautiful voice will live forever. Condolences to her family and loved ones.”
Daddy Showkey took to Instagram to share a photo of Onwenu, acknowledging the unexpected nature of her death. He wrote, “RIP Great Legend Onyeka Onwenu. Nobody know the news wey you go hear when you wake up in morning.”
Veteran Nollywood actress Patience Ozokwor also shared her grief, calling the news of Onwenu’s death painful and hurting.
Ozokwor, speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) from Enugu, said, “Onyeka is not just a colleague but a friend. I am downcast now and hurting because of her death and for the fact that she was not sick. How can everyone be dying like that, what is causing so much death? Everyone is stressed up in this country.”
Onwenu, born in 1952, had a distinguished career in music and film. She began her music career in the 1980s, releasing her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. She went on to release numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love.” Alongside her music career, Onwenu acted in several Nollywood films, earning numerous awards for her contributions to the arts.
In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu was also active in politics. She was appointed Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
In 2011, she was honored with the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
