On Tuesday night, a somber incident occurred at a birthday celebration in Lagos involving the celebrated singer Onyeka Onwenu.

The renowned artist, widely admired for her contributions to music, tragically collapsed and passed away shortly after delivering a performance at the event.

Onwenu was attending a private birthday party for Dr. Stella Chinyelu Okoli, the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company.

Following her performance, which was met with acclaim, she returned to her seat. It was at this point that she suddenly lost consciousness.

Despite immediate efforts from emergency services, who swiftly transported her to Reddington Hospital in Lagos, her life could not be saved. The exact cause of her death remains undisclosed at this time.

Onyeka Onwenu, an influential figure in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape, was affectionately known as the ‘Elegant Stallion.’

Her sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting her significant role not only as a musician but also as an activist and public servant.

Beyond her illustrious music career, Onwenu was deeply involved in political and cultural advocacy.

She held prominent positions, including Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.

Earlier this year, Onwenu had announced an exciting new project: a film that would recount her extensive journey through the music industry over several decades.

She had expressed enthusiasm about sharing her personal narrative and reflecting on the evolution of Nigerian music.

Additionally, Onwenu had planned to collaborate with emerging artists to release a compilation of her classic hits, reimagined for a contemporary audience, with the release slated for later in the year.

Onwenu, born on May 31, 1952, was a multifaceted talent whose career spanned more than forty years.

Her musical repertoire, which included genres such as highlife, reggae, and pop, often tackled social and political themes. Her notable songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”

At the time of her passing, it is unclear whether her planned documentary or the reworked compilation of her music had been completed.

The loss of Onyeka Onwenu is deeply felt, as she leaves behind a legacy of artistic and social contributions that will continue to resonate.