Onyeka Onwenu passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. She was reportedly slumped after performing at a private function and was confirmed dead at the Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos. She was 72 years old at the time of her passing.
Onyeka Onwenu's Life and Times:
Onyeka Onwenu was a Nigerian singer andsongwriter,a human rights activist, politician, and former X Factor Nigeria judge. She was born on January 17, 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria and grew up in a musical family and started singing at a young age.
Her music career saw to the release of her debut album, "For the Sake of Love," in 1981 and she was also known for her hit songs like "One Love," "Iyogogo," and "Ekwe". She
released over 10 albums and collaborated with international artists.
She was known for human rights activism and politics, particularly for women and children's rights. She also served as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and ran for political office in 2015 as the Labour Party's candidate for the Imo State gubernatorial election.
She got several awards and recognitions as listed below
- Winner of the 1986 Nigerian Music Awards' "Best Female Vocalist"
- Recipient of the 2013 Nigeria Entertainment Awards' "Legendary Award"
- Honored with the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa Music Awards
Personal Life:
- Married to a journalist and has two children
- Has been open about her experiences with gender-based violence and advocacy for women's rights
Onyeka Onwenu was a highly respected and accomplished individual in Nigeria and beyond, celebrated for her contributions to music, activism, and politics.
