Singer, songwriter, broadcaster and actress Onyeka Onwenu serenaded politicians Peter Obi and Alex Otti during her performance at the 80th birthday party of industrialist Stella Okoli.
On Tuesday, before her demise, the artiste moved to the table where Obi, a former presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, and Governor Otti of Abia and others were seated and bowed to greet the former.
Ms. Onyeka, dressed in a loose gown, delivered energetic performances of her songs ‘One Love’ and ‘Ochie Dike Mama’ before she slumped and was rushed to the hospital.
Doctors at Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos, pronounced her dead.
Former secretary general of the Commonwealth Emeka Anyaoku was also at the party.
In a statement released by her sons on Wednesday, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende said: “It is with heavy hearts that my brother and I wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much-loved Onyeka Onwenu. She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly, she passed.
“Onyeka Onwenu was a National Treasure, an Icon, and a Legend who inspired multiple generations of Nigerians and people around the world with her music, acting, philanthropy, and humanitarian efforts. She is greatly loved and missed!”
Onyeka was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State.
She began her musical journey in the 1980s, releasing her debut album, For the Love of You, in 1981.
The singer continued to captivate the world with numerous hit songs, including ‘One Love,’ ‘Ekwe,’ ‘You and I,’ ‘Iyogogo,’ ‘Dancing in the Sun,’ and ‘Falling in Love.’
She died aged 72.
