15 Things You Need to Know About Late Onyeka Onwenu

Here are 15 things you need to know about the late Onyeka Onwenu:

1. Onyeka Onwenu was born on January 31, 1952, in Arondizuogu, Imo State, Nigeria.
2. She was nicknamed the “Elegant Stallion” for her grace and elegance.
3. Onwenu was a singer, songwriter, actress, journalist, politician, and human rights activist.
4. She began her music career in the late 1970s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981.
5. Onwenu was married to a Yoruba Muslim and had two sons, Tijani Ogunlende and Ibrahim Ogunlende.
6. She was appointed Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
7. Onwenu was awarded the National Honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
8. She was known for her soulful voice and her ability to blend traditional African music with contemporary styles.
9. Onwenu’s music often addressed social issues like health, women’s rights, and children’s welfare.
10. She appeared in several Nollywood films, including “Widow’s Cot,” for which she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role.
11. Onwenu was a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, serving as a member of the People’s Democratic Party.
12. She was a renowned humanitarian and has been involved in various social causes, including women’s rights and the fight against HIV/AIDS.
13. Onwenu was celebrated for her advocacy and leadership in various spheres of society.
14. She died on July 30, 2024, at the age of 72, after collapsing following a performance at a birthday celebration.
15. Onwenu’s legacy as a cultural icon in Nigeria and a significant star on the African continent and beyond will never be forgotten.