Nigerians on Wednesday received with shock and sadness the news of the passing of the iconic singer and actress, Onyeka Onwenu. She died at the age of 72.
Onwenu, it was learnt, died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos, after slumping at the 80th birthday party of the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli, where she performed.
Confirming this, the children of the deceased have announced her passing, sharing details about her final moments.
“It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu,” her children wrote in a statement signed by her sons, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende on Wednesday.
“She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria,” they said.
Reports have it that Onwenu had just completed a performance at the birthday party of Mrs Stella Okoli when she was suddenly rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Lagos.
The children said, “She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed.”
Her children described their mother as an “icon and legend” who inspired multiple generations with her music, acting, philanthropy and humanitarian efforts.
“She is greatly loved and missed!” they added.
The family expressed their gratitude to those who supported Onyeka in her final moments.
“As we take the time to make the necessary plans, we would like you all to take the time to remember her life, the contributions she made and the impact she made on so many lives, including ours.”
The renowned singer was born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State. She released her debut album, ‘For the Love of You,’ in 1981 and has since released several albums and singles, including her hit song ‘One Love.’
Her Last Moments
Also recalling Onwenu’s last moments, Peter Obi the presidential candidate of Labour Party in 2023 elections, who was with her at the birthday party wrote:
“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.”
Meanwhile, former colleagues and sympathizers including the Nigerian president Bola Ahmed Tinubu have been mourning her.
Thanks for reading this. Please like it, comment and share this story. Also follow Julius Adegunna, and PTL News on our Social Media handles or call 234-8033260387, 8120969883, 7082666862, 8137319017. If you have been blessed by our website, you are free to bless us in return. Reach out to the Publisher for donations and supports. Your comments and reactions can be sent to editor@ptlnewsonline.com. God bless you.
MAKE MONEY FROM AFFILLIATE MARKETING & AMAZON KDP
Will you like to make more money through your smartphone and data? Will you like to earn extra incomes from the comfort of your home? Hook up through this link and learn how to make cool cash with immediate effect. https://finxpire.com/product/amm/15237, https://finxpire.com/product/spg/15237, or https://wa.link/se65hx. Contact 234-8033260387, after registration.
Leave a Reply