Former Minister of Education, Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of music icon Onyeka Onwenu, describing the news as “shocking and extremely tragic.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ezekwesili paid tribute to Onwenu, who passed away on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at a birthday party where she had performed. She was 72 years old.
Ezekwesili celebrated Onwenu’s illustrious career, highlighting her contributions as a journalist, newscaster, songwriter, musician, performer, actor, and producer. She praised Onwenu’s exceptional talents and her impact on Nigerian arts and media.
“Shocking and extremely tragic news of the passing of our dear #OnyekaOnwenu – The Elegant Stallion – as we came to know her,” Ezekwesili wrote. “Our sister, Onyeka was as cerebral as she was gifted in the Arts and quite a captivating journalist in the 80s when she returned home and did her National Youth Service with NTA #NTANewsNow. Her newscasting skills were unmatched.”
Ezekwesili also recalled Onwenu’s influential BBC World documentary, “A Squandering of Riches,” which she said remains a significant narrative on governance issues in Nigeria.
Additionally, Ezekwesili acknowledged Onwenu’s political career, following in the footsteps of her father, D.K. Onwenu. She also fondly remembered Onwenu’s tribute to her mother, Dame Hope Onwenu, in the song “Ochie Dike Mama,” which has been an anthem for mothers since 2010.
“We truly have lost a distinguished Nigerian in the death of Onyeka Onwenu,” Ezekwesili wrote. “May God comfort and grant divine peace to her 2 sons, siblings, and the rest of the Onwenu family.”
