5 Onyeka Onwenu Moments We’ll Never Forget  

Onyeka Onwenu, a luminary in Nigeria’s entertainment sphere, tragically passed away on July 30, 2024, shortly after delivering a heartfelt performance at a friend’s birthday celebration in Lagos. 

Born in Imo State, Nigeria, she rose to prominence with her soothing voice and compelling performances.  Her final moments performing at an event show her lifelong dedication to her art and the joy it brought to others. 

Here are some standout moments from Onwenu’s remarkable career, which not only define her legacy but also continue to inspire and move all who knew her work and spirit.

She would have been Fela’s Lover

The connection between Onyeka Onwenu and the legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti is a poignant tale of what could have been. Fela, known for his radical music and lifestyle, once proposed marriage to Onwenu after she stood out to speak for him when he was unjustly arrested by the government. However, she declined, valuing her independence and unwilling to share Fela with his many other companions. 

She Led a Protest Against NTA for Not Paying Royalties

In the year 2000, Onwenu made headlines not just for her music but for standing up to Nigeria’s national broadcaster, NTA, which had used her music without proper compensation. 

Her protest outside the NTA offices, including a hunger strike, underscored her commitment to artists’ rights and fair compensation. This act of defiance resonated across the industry, eventually leading to a resolution that favored artists’ royalty payments.

She Died After Doing What She Loved Best

Onyeka Onwenu’s passing on July 30, 2024, was a poignant closure to her vibrant life, occurring right after a performance at t a friend’s birthday party in Lagos. She was doing what she loved—singing and connecting with her audience—until her last moments. Her death was a stark reminder of her dedication to her craft, leaving a legacy of passion and perseverance.

passed out after performing at a friend’s birthday party in Lagos. She was immediately taken to Reddington Hospital where she was confirmed dead. 

She Lost Twice Before Getting an Appointment

Onwenu’s foray into politics was marked by initial setbacks when she lost two elections for the Local Council Chairman in Ideato North, Imo State. Despite these losses, her persistence and belief in public service led to her appointment as the Executive Director of the National Centre for Women Development. 

She Won Best Actress at the Africa Movie Academy Award

Transitioning from music to acting, Onwenu proved her versatility by winning Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards for her role in the film “Widow’s Cot.” This accolade was a testament to her talent and ability to engage audiences not only through her music but also through compelling storytelling on screen.