Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate, has taken to social media to mourn veteran entertainer, Onyeka Onwenu, who died on Tuesday night, July 30.
In a statement released on social media, Obi recounted how Ms Onwenu slumped at the party they were both attending in Lagos. A video shared online showed late Onyeka singing at the party and walking to a table to greet Obi.
Detailing her final moments, Obi 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.
Also read: Music Icon Onyeka Onwenu on a Journey of no Return
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.
Onwenu was a national treasure, a shining star who inspired generations with her music, activism, and strong dedication to the arts. Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire nation, and she will be deeply missed.
I want to thank everyone who together with us accompanied her to the hospital yesterday. Special thanks to Mr. and Mrs John Momoh, Mr and Mrs Okonkwo, and Mr Okpara, who were with her during her last moments.
Governor Alex Otti joined us also and Mr. Femi Ajayi who equally returned to the hospital this morning when we had to finalized everything about her passing. May her soul rest in peace and may her legacy continue to inspire and unite us all.
My condolences to her family, the entertainment industry, and the nation at large. May we find solace in the memories we shared with her and the impact she had on our lives.”
And children join the narration
The children of famous Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu have confirmed her death and provided 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.
Onyeka Onwenu instructed family how to bury her
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.
Confirming her death, 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 the deceased 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 thanks to those who supported Onyeka in her final moments, including “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 passing.”
They added, “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.”
