Peter Obi Gives Vivid Account Of How Onyeka Onwenu Died
OpenLife Nigeria reports that 2023 Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has given a vivid and clearer account of how a Nigerian singer, songwriter, actress, human rights and social activist, journalist, politician, and former X Factor series judge, Ms Onyeka Onwenu, died on Tuesday on Banana Island, Lagos.
According to reports, the veteran Nigerian iconic singer died Tuesday night after performing at an event at Banana Island, Lagos at the age of 72.
Onwenu, who hailed from Obosi, Anambra State, was said to have slumped after performing at the 80th birthday ceremony of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals company.
She was later confirmed dead at Reddington hospital on Victoria Island.
Narrating how she died, Obi said:
“Yesterday provided a very devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory.
“I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu, performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.
“It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital.
“I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life , doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone. Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.
“My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.
“Onwenu was a national treasure, a shining star who inspired generations with her music, activism, and strong dedication to the arts. Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire nation, and she will be deeply missed.
“I want to thank everyone who together with us accompanied her to the hospital yesterday. Special thanks to Mr. and Mrs John Momoh, Mr and Mrs Okonkwo, and Mr Okpara, who were with her during her last moments.
“Governor Alex Otti joined us also and Mr. Femi Ajayi who equally returned to the hospital this morning when we had to finalized everything about her passing. May her soul rest in peace and may her legacy continue to inspire and unite us all.
“My condolences to her family, the entertainment industry, and the nation at large. May we find solace in the memories we shared with her and the impact she had on our lives.
#PeterObi 🇳🇬
Onyeka Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. She has since released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love.”
Onwenu has also acted in several Nollywood films and has won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film. She has been recognised as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.
In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu has also been involved in politics. She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.
Onwenu has been recognized for her contributions to Nigerian society, including being awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
She has also been recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organisations