Former Kaduna Senator Shehu Sani and former presidential aide Reno Omokri have expressed their sorrow over the passing of renowned Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu.
The veteran artist died at the age of 72 on Tuesday at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at a birthday party for Emzor Pharmaceuticals’ Managing Director, Mrs. Stella Okoli.
In a post on Wednesday, Sani highlighted the nation’s loss of a significant cultural figure, noting that Onwenu’s music conveyed messages of love and peace. “Onyeka, the nation has lost a timeless legend and a great artist who sang from the heart, spreading the messages of love and peace through music. Your melodies will forever resonate in our souls. Rest in peace,” he wrote.
Omokri, in his tribute, praised Onwenu as an “elegant stallion,” recognising her ability to elevate music and artistry with her charm and stage presence. He shared, “I am heartbroken at the news of the death of veteran singer, broadcaster, and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, at 72. I knew her, and we bonded over my love for her music, which added value to my early years. It was one of the greatest honours of my life to collaborate with her and Panam Percy Paul on a charity single I executive produced.”
Omokri continued, “She was called the elegant stallion for a reason. And the reason is that she elevated music and artistry with her natural charm and stage presence. Onyeka Onwenu was a great asset to Nigeria and a significant star on the African continent and beyond. She will be greatly missed. May her soul rest in peace! Onyeka Onwenu: January 31, 1952 – July 31, 2024: Gone but never to be forgotten.”
