Farewell to Onyeka Onwenu: Nigeria’s Elegant Stallion Laid to Rest in Lagos
Onyeka Onwenu, one of Nigeria’s most iconic music legends, affectionately known as the “Elegant Stallion,” was laid to rest in Lagos after a life that profoundly shaped the nation’s cultural landscape. The renowned singer, broadcaster, actress, and activist passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 72. She died at Reddington Hospital in Ikeja, Lagos, after collapsing at an event honoring Stella Okoli, Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.
Her passing sent waves of grief throughout Nigeria, with fans and admirers mourning the loss of a beloved cultural icon. The funeral service, held at the Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos, was a celebration of her life, filled with love and gratitude from family, friends, and admirers who gathered to pay their last respects.
Onwenu was later laid to rest in a private ceremony at a peaceful vault in Ikoyi. Among the notable figures in attendance were former presidential candidate Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, both of whom praised her contributions to Nigeria’s culture, politics, and advocacy for justice and equality.
More than just a singer, Onyeka Onwenu’s career spanned decades of storytelling through music, activism, and media, making her a symbol of strength, beauty, and resilience. Her timeless songs and her work in broadcasting and film have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s cultural history.
She is survived by her two sons, who continue to uphold her legacy as a national treasure and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
