“Farewell to an Icon: Onyeka Onwenu, the ‘Elegant Stallion,’ Laid to Rest After Sudden Passing”
2 min read
Onyeka Onwenu, the legendary Nigerian singer and cultural icon known as the “Elegant Stallion,” has been laid to rest in Lagos, leaving behind a rich legacy that spans music, media, and activism. The beloved artist passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 72, following a sudden collapse at a tribute event for Dr. Stella Okoli, the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. She was taken to Reddington Hospital in Ikeja, where she later died.
Onwenu’s funeral service was held at the Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos, drawing a large crowd of family, friends, and admirers who came to pay their final respects. The service was marked by moving tributes and emotional performances from fellow musicians and cultural figures. Her burial took place at a private ceremony in a vault at Ikoyi, attended by close family members and friends.
Often hailed as a trailblazer, Onwenu began her career as a journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) before launching into music in the early 1980s. She rose to fame with hits like “One Love” and “You and I,” capturing the hearts of Nigerians and earning international recognition. Beyond her music, she was a staunch advocate for women’s rights and social justice, using her platform to speak out on issues affecting marginalized communities. She also ventured into politics, serving as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture, and appeared in numerous Nollywood films, solidifying her status as a multi-talented and influential figure in Nigerian entertainment.
Onwenu’s death marks the end of an era for Nigerian music and culture, but her contributions and influence will be remembered for generations to come.
