Onyeka Onwenu passed on after performance at birthday party

Tragedy struck at a private birthday celebration in Lagos as renowned Nigerian singer and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, affectionately known as the ‘Elegant Stallion,’ passed away shortly after performing.

The music icon, aged 72, reportedly collapsed at the event and was later pronounced dead at Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Onwenu was attending the birthday celebration of Mrs. Stella Okoli, founder of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, when she took to the stage for what would be her final performance.

Eyewitnesses at the event stated that after her performance, Onwenu returned to her seat and suddenly slumped.

Emergency services were called immediately, but despite being rushed to the hospital, she was declared dead. The exact cause of her death remains unconfirmed at this time.

A source close to the family, speaking on the condition of anonymity with The Guardian, expressed deep sorrow over the sudden loss.

“It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu had just performed at the birthday of Mrs. Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceuticals this night, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital but couldn’t make it,” the source said.

The event, which was graced by several dignitaries, including the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, and the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, ended on a somber note with the tragic news of Onwenu’s passing.

Onyeka Onwenu, born on May 31, 1952, was a multifaceted artist whose career spanned over four decades.

She was not only a renowned singer and songwriter but also an actress, journalist, and politician.

Her music, which blended genres such as highlife, reggae, and pop, often addressed social and political issues. Some of her most popular songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”

-NaijaNews