Onyeka Onwenu Biography
Onyeka Onwenu, a renowned Nigerian artist and activist, was Born on January 31, 1952, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to a family from Arondizuogu, Ideato North, Imo State. She was the youngest child of D.K. Onwenu, a prominent Nigerian educator and politician. Tragically, her father passed away in a car accident when she was just four years old, mere days before he was set to be appointed Minister of Education.
She was a multifaceted personality celebrated for her contributions to music, acting, human rights activism, journalism, and politics.
Her impressive career spanned several fields, earning her the nickname “Elegant Stallion” from the Nigerian press. She served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and was a judge on the X Factor series. Her music addressed various social issues, and her songs, such as “One Love” and “You and I,” remain popular across generations.
Her legacy as a singer/songwriter, actress, and social activist continues to inspire and influence Nigerian culture and beyond. She was an advocate for women’s rights and was involved in various humanitarian efforts, focusing on issues like maternal health and child welfare.
She received numerous awards for her contributions to music, acting, and public service, including the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). She was also appointed Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013.
Her music has stood the test of time, with timeless classics like “One Love” and “You and I”, the latter gaining even more popularity through Africa Magic. Her song “Ekwe” is also deeply ingrained in cultural history, recognized for its fearless and defiant tone, echoing the challenges faced by past generations. As a singer, songwriter, actress, and social activist, her impact continues to shape Nigerian culture and extend beyond. Her music sheds light on various critical issues, including her 2022 song “Rise Up”, created in collaboration with the Rose of Sharon Foundation to raise awareness about the struggles of widows in Nigeria, Africa, and globally.
The Rose of Sharon Foundation, which partnered with her on her song “Rise Up”, is founded by Folorunsho Alakija, a renowned businesswoman and one of the wealthiest black women globally.
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Onyeka Onwenu Education
Onyeka Onwenu held a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College in Massachusetts, and a Master’s degree in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research in New York. Before returning to Nigeria in 1980, she worked as a tour guide at the United Nations. Upon her return, she completed her one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Lagos, Nigeria.
Onyeka Onwenu Age
Onyeka Onwenu, a renowned Nigerian artist and activist, was Born on January 31, 1952, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Onyeka Onwenu Career
She was a multifaceted Nigerian personality, a renowned singer, actor, journalist, and activist. Born on January 31, 1952, she launched her music career with her debut album “For the Love of You” in 1981. In the 1990s, she shifted her focus to gospel music, earning popularity with hits like “One Love” and “You and I”, and earning the nickname “Elegant Stallion” for her powerful performances. Beyond music, Onwenu appeared in films like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Lionheart”. She also ventured into politics and served as Executive Director of the National Centre for Women Development. Tragically, Onwenu passed away on July 30, 2024, a day after performing in Lagos.
Onyeka Onwenu Husband
Onyeka Onwenu was married to a Yoruba Muslim man named Ogunlende, with whom she had two sons, Tijani and Abraham (formerly Ibrahim). However, their marriage was troubled by scandals and challenges, leading Onwenu to eventually leave her husband. In interviews, she has spoken candidly about the difficulties she faced, saying, “I went through a tough time, and it nearly cost me my life.” She also revealed that she single-handedly supported their children from nursery school to master’s degrees, as her ex-husband did not provide financial support. Despite their separation, Onwenu has expressed that she prays for her ex-husband and acknowledges his personal growth over time. Onwenu has chosen to keep her personal life private, declining to share intimate details about her ex-husband.
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Onyeka Onwenu Cause of Death
Nigerian music legend and actress passed away at the age of 72. A beloved and iconic figure in the country, she died on July 30, 2024, after collapsing during a performance at a birthday party in Lagos. Despite receiving emergency medical treatment at Reddington Hospital, she couldn’t be saved. Her family confirmed her passing, remembering her as an “icon and legend” who inspired countless people through her music and humanitarian work.
Onyeka Onwenu Net Worth
Onyeka Onwenu’s net worth: 441 million naira ($270,000 USD) by 2024. She prioritizes impact over wealth.
