The sons of late veteran Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende on Wednesday officially confirmed their mother was pronounced dead at the Reddington hospital on Tuesday night.
The iconic artiste, known for her powerful voice and activism, on Tuesday, died at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos after slumping at the birthday party of Mrs Stella Okoli.
In a statement, the sons wrote, “It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu. She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30 2024, in Lagos Nigeria
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed.
“Onyeka Onwenu was a National Treasure! An Icon and Legend, who inspired multiple generations of Nigerians and people around the world with her Music, Acting, Philanthropy and Humanitarian Efforts. She is greatly loved and missed!
“Specifically, we are deeply grateful to Mr. Peter Obi, Mr. and Mrs. John Momoh and Mr. and Mrs. Okonkwo as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr. Okpara all of whom were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage.
“We are also appreciative of Reddington Hospital and all their staff for their efforts.
“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.”
Before her death, the veteran singer had revealed how she would want to be remembered and buried.
In an opinion piece on Premium Times in 2021, the veteran singer urged her loved ones to focus on celebrating her life with prayers and light-hearted moments while noting that they should “mourn, yes but not excessively”.
She had said, “Do it quickly, quietly and privately, celebrate me with prayers, lunch or dinner afterwards. Share some jokes about me and laugh.
“Make merriment and then go about your business. If my friends want to celebrate with me, they should do so while I am alive, so that I can enjoy it with them, not when I am gone and have no idea about this. That is me Onyeka Onwenu”.
Her music and writings have been widely recognised, with notable songs including ‘One Love’ and ‘You and I’. She is also the author of the book ‘My Father’s Daughter,’ an autobiography.
Our Mother Died After An Amazing Musical Performance- Onyeka Onwenu’s Sons is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
