By Abiola Olawale
Tributes have begun to pour in for the legendary singer, songwriter, actor and politician Onyeka Onwenu, who passed on at the age of 72 years.
The New Diplomat reports that Onwenu was said to have died on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at the birthday party of the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli, where she had performed.
President Bola Tinubu, in his tribute, has extended his profound condolences to the family of the late singer.
Tinubu, in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, described Onwenu as an extremely gifted artiste who devoted herself to a wide range of artistic endeavours and expressions, bringing joy and laughter to many.
The message reads in part: “President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition of ‘One Love’ in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
“The President recalls the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting the public good, noting her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me’, a melodic campaign on family planning in the 1980s.”
“Ms Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces,” the President stated.
Also, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has expressed his heartfelt sadness over the demise of the music icon.
The Governor, in a statement issued on Wednesday, described the late singer as “one of Nigeria’s most versatile music exports.”
He said: “Onwenu was a gift to her generation—sonorous, enigmatic, and enchanting. Hers was a gift well deserving as she serenaded all with her voice, soothing both the old and the young with melodious, evergreen tunes.
“Onwenu performed excellently as a conscious musician, lacing her music with messages for social revival.
“She wore many hats elegantly as a soulful singer, fierce journalist, and conscientious social crusader. Her desire for a better Nigeria was evident in the passion she infused into the many avenues she used to advocate for a more prosperous nation.
“It is sad that we lost her at a time when we needed role models like her to inspire Nigerian youths, who would have benefited from her experience and insights garnered as an active figure in various aspects of the Nigerian experience.
“We will miss her elegance, candour, and infectious charm. I commiserate with the Onwenu family, friends, and associates and pray that God will grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he added
