- Tinubu, Atiku, Obi, Others Mourn
With many still to come to terms with the tragic news, tributes have been pouring in over the death of topmost Nigerian female artiste, Onyeka Onwenu popularly called the elegant Stallion.
President Bola Tinubu, Wednesday led the tribute when he extended his condolences to the family of the late singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, activist, and politician.
Tinubu conveyed his condolences in a statement signed by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President.
The Icon (Onwenu), aged 72, was reported dead on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at the birthday party of CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli,
The Statement reads; “President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition of ‘One Love’ in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
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“The President recalls the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting the public good, noting her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me’, a melodic campaign on family planning in the 1980s.”
“Ms Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces,” the President stated.
He extended his condolences to the entertainment industry, the Imo State Government, and the numerous fans of the departed star over this immeasurable loss.
“The President prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased artiste and that “she finds a place yonder where the music never fades and where there is ‘Dancing in the Sun.’”
Similarly, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar mourned her death describing her exit as a sad loss for Nigeria.
He described her further as an accomplished journalist and musician who contributed much in defending the voice of women.
In his condolence on Wednesday, the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said,
“I am so sad to learn of the passing of Onyeka Onwenu, MFR. Onyeka was a multi-talented woman whose impact would stand the test of time. She was a transformational journalist whose works, such as the documentary “Nigeria: The Squandering of Riches,” are timeless.
“Her musical prowess led to multiple hits, which will continue to resonate long after her exit. On behalf of my family, I express my deepest condolences to her beloved family and friends and the musical fraternity. May God grant her family the fortitude to bear her departure.”
On his part, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Wednesday recounted the last minutes of late singer.
The former Anambra State governor in a post on his official X handle on Wednesday described the moment the singer collapsed after performing at the birthday ceremony of Stella Okoli, Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Mourns Iconic Musician, Onyeka Onwenu
He disclosed that Onwenu was rushed to a hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos after collapsing.
He said despite the efforts of the medical personnel, the singer was unfortunately pronounced dead after about two hours.
Obi stated that it was a devastating moment for him witnessing the “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.”
The former Anambra State governor extended his condolences to the family and associates of the deceased.
“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,” he added.
