Onyeka Onwenu, a beloved Nigerian singer, actor, and activist, has passed away at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy that profoundly impacted not only the music industry but also the fight for women’s rights in Nigeria. Known affectionately as the “Elegant Stallion,” Onwenu’s contributions to music and culture resonated deeply, particularly during the turbulent 1980s in Nigeria. Her passing was reported shortly after she performed at a private gathering in Lagos, where she fell ill and later succumbed to a heart attack at a nearby hospital.
Born in January 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Onyeka was the daughter of Dickson Onwenu, a prominent politician during Nigeria’s pre-independence era, and Hope Onwenu, a singer. Raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, she pursued her education in the United States, attending Wellesley College in Massachusetts and later the New School in New York City. This educational background enriched her artistic expression and provided her with a platform to launch her multifaceted career upon her return to Nigeria.
Onyeka Onwenu’s musical journey began as she transitioned from her studies to becoming a pop sensation in Nigeria. Her love ballads and empowering songs became anthems for many, particularly her 1986 hit “One Love,” a disco classic that celebrated unity and peace. Another notable track, “You and I,” gained further fame when it was featured in the 1999 film “Conspiracy,” in which she also starred. This song is now considered one of the iconic soundtracks of Nollywood, Nigeria’s burgeoning film industry.
Throughout her career, Onwenu was not only a musician but also a dedicated broadcaster with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). Her commitment to social issues was evident in her work, including the documentary “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches,” which she co-produced in 1984. This project exposed corruption in Nigeria’s oil-rich economy, showcasing her courage to address contentious topics through her art.
Collaborating with fellow artists, Onwenu recorded the 1989 duet “Choices” with jùjú music legend King Sunny Adé. This bold song tackled themes of consent and birth control, a progressive message in a conservative society. Her activism extended beyond music; she was a lifelong advocate for women’s rights and an outspoken supporter of fellow musicians, including the legendary Fela Aníkúlápó Kútì. After his arrest by the military government in the 1980s, she campaigned for his release, demonstrating her commitment to the arts and social justice.
Onyeka released four albums before transitioning to gospel music in the 1990s. Acknowledged for her contributions to the arts, she received national honors in Nigeria in 2003 and 2011. Despite her public persona, she maintained a private life, raising two sons from her marriage in 1984, which she left due to persistent depression. Her resilience as a single mother was evident as she navigated the challenges of parenting while pursuing her career.
In 2000, Onwenu staged a three-day hunger strike at the NTA headquarters, protesting her exclusion from airplay despite the station profiting from her music. This act of defiance highlighted her dedication to her rights as an artist and her fight against exploitation.
In later years, Onwenu pivoted to politics, serving as the head of the National Centre for Women Development. She later returned to the arts, taking on roles in films such as the adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Half of a Yellow Sun” and Netflix’s “Lionheart.” Her performances continued to inspire new generations, and she remained a significant figure in Nigerian culture.
Onyeka Onwenu’s passing marks the end of an era, but her music and activism will continue to resonate in the hearts of many. As tributes pour in, including a heartfelt acknowledgment from Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, it is clear that her legacy as a trailblazer for women’s rights and a pioneering artist will not be forgotten. Her immortal masterpieces will live on, inspiring future generations to champion the causes she passionately advocated for throughout her life.
