First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Mourns Music Icon Onyeka Onwenu
By Trek Africa Newspaper
The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu has extended condolences to the family of the late iconic singer, actor, journalist, activist, and politician Onyeka Onwenu.
Describing, Onwenu as “The Elegant Stallion”, the wife of the President recalled that she interacted with her not too long ago during the event to celebrate Mothers of the Nation, on the 25th of May, 2024.
Onwenu reportedly collapsed after performing at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okolie, chief executive officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, on Tuesday.
She was said to have been rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she reportedly passed away.
In a statement released on Wednesday by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the wife of the President commiserated with the singer’s friends and colleagues over the loss.
Mrs. Tinubu mourned her passing, reminiscing the edifying rendition of ‘One Love’ in the 1990s, which evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
“Her extraordinary talent, creativity and contributions to unity and African values exemplified in her iconic song “One Love Keep Us Together,” have left an indelible mark on the world of music, not only in Nigeria but across the world”.
“My thoughts and prayers are with her family, associates, and friends during this period of grief. May the Lord God grant them the strength to bear this painful and irreplaceable loss”, she said.
“She left us doing what she loved”, she said.
“May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
The legendary Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu died at the age of 72.
An eyewitness at the party confirmed the tragic event, stating, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli today (Tuesday, July 30, 2024), and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital but did not survive.”
Onyeka Onwenu will be remembered for her music albums like “In The Morning Light” and “Dancing In The Sun,” as well as her roles in films such as “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Lionheart.”
