Nigerian music activist, Onyeka Onwenu who reportedly died after she slumped at a birthday party in Lagos State on Tuesday night, had in an interview with Primium Times in 2021, explained how she wants to be buried.
Onyeka Onwenu reportedly passed on after her performance at Stella Chinyelu Okoli’s 80th birthday bash shortly after which she slumped and died at the Hospital.
Details of the 2021 interview she had with Primum Times in 2021 is reported excerpt as captured by Punch Newspaper: “In a reflection shared three years ago, veteran Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu revealed her wishes for how she would like to be remembered and buried.
“Do it quickly, quietly and privately,” Onwenu wrote in an opinion piece on Premium Times in 2021, emphasising that her burial should be devoid of unnecessary fanfare.
She urged her loved ones to “mourn, yes but not excessively,” and to instead focus on celebrating her life with prayers and light-hearted moments.
“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 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,” she said.
In her statement, Onwenu also touched on broader cultural practices, condemning the lavish display of wealth often seen at Nigerian burials.
She contrasted her own wishes with the extravagant funeral of Obi Cubana’s mother, which sparked widespread debate across the country.
“I am very uncomfortable with the lavish display of wealth on any occasion, especially in a time of hardship and lack for most others,” she remarked, calling for more modest and meaningful ways to honour the deceased.
Onwenu has had a multifaceted career, working in music, film, advocacy, journalism and politics.
She has held various roles, including chairing the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and judging on the X Factor series.
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”.
We had earlier reported that one of the notable Nigerian writers and music icons that have played a vital role in the advancement of the country, Onyeka Onwenu has been reported dead after she slumped at a friend’s birthday party on Tuesday night in Lagos State.
The Legendary Nigerian singer, writer and actress, Onyeka Onwenu reportedly died at the age of 72.
She was said to have died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos after slumping at the birthday party of Mrs Stella Okoli.
TheNiche news media according to Punch Newspaper, reported that an eyewitness who was at the party confirmed the news.
“It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs Stella Okoli today (Tuesday, July 30, 2024), and after performing, she slumped.
However, the deceased’s family has yet to announce her death as of press time.
Onwenu will be remembered for her music albums such as “In The Morning Light” and “Dancing In The Sun”.
She also featured in the Half of a Yellow Sun and Lions Heart, among others.”
Reno Omokri, former presidential spokesperson on New media in a message few hours ago said: “I am heartbroken at the news of the death of veteran singer, broadcaster, and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, at 72.
I knew her, and we bonded over my love for her music, which added value to my early years. It was one of the greatest honours of my life to collaborate with her and Panam Percy Paul on a charity single I executive(ly) produced.
She was called the Elegant Stallion for a reason. And the reason is that she elevated music and artistry with her natural charm and stage presence.
Onyeka Onwenu was a great asset to Nigeria and a significant star on the African continent and beyond. She will be greatly missed. May her soul rest in peace!
Onyeka Onwenu: January 31, 1952-July 31, 2024: Gone but never to be forgotten”.
Koiki Media in a Facebook post also said: “Onyeka Onwenu 1984 documentary of Nigeria will help you to understand that Nigeria has been bad from time immemorial and cannot be fixed”.
All Movie Gist said: “Onyeka Onwenu was a multi-talented star whose legacy will forever shine in Nollywood and the music industry.
Her unforgettable roles in films like Women’s Cot, Rising Moon, Half of a Yellow Sun, and Lionheart are just a few examples of her incredible talent and contributions to the industry.
Additionally, her music touched many hearts, blending soulful melodies with meaningful lyrics.
She will always be remembered for her vibrant spirit, immense talent, and the beautiful songs she gifted us. Rest in peace, Onyeka. Your legacy lives on”.
Onyeka Onwenu, born on May 31, 1952, had a career that spanned over four decades. She was not only a renowned singer and songwriter but also an actress, journalist, and politician. Her first album with Polygram, In The Morning Light, was released in 1984.
Some of her most popular songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “Ekwe.”
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