The incomparable Onyeka Onwenu, affectionately known as the “Elegant Stallion,” left an indelible mark on the fabric of African culture and entertainment. With a multifaceted career spanning over four decades, she effortlessly traversed the realms of music, film, journalism, politics, and activism, inspiring generations with her unwavering dedication to human rights and social justice. As a celebrated singer-songwriter, actress, and former X Factor judge, Onwenu’s influence extended far beyond the stage, with her leadership roles in the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and the National Centre for Women Development cementing her legacy as a true icon and champion of African excellence.
Wiki
Full Name: Onyeka Onwenu
Date of Birth: January 31, 1952
Place of Birth: Port Harcourt
Origin: Ideato North, Imo State
Nationality: Nigerian
Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Human Right Activist, Social Activist.
Notable Songs: Iyogogo, Bia Nulu, Ekwe, You and I, Wait for Me
Notable Movies: Mother’s In-law, Half of a Yellow Sun
Net Worth: $100,000
Early Life & Career
Onyeka Onwenu hailed from Arondizuogu, a prominent town in Ideato North, Imo State, in southeastern Nigeria. She was raised in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, following the tragic death of her father, D.K. Onwenu, a notable educationist and politician. Her father died in an auto crash when she was just four years old, shortly before his appointment as Minister for Education. This left her mother, Hope Onwenu, to single-handedly raise five children after being denied access to her late husband’s property by his family.
Onwenu’s educational journey was impressive. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College, Massachusetts, and later pursued a Master of Arts in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research, New York. Her academic background laid a strong foundation for her diverse career.
Before returning to Nigeria, Onwenu worked as a tour guide for the United Nations, which broadened her worldview and honed her communication skills. In 1980, she completed her mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Lagos. At NTA, she made a significant impact as a newsreader and reporter.
In 1984, she gained international acclaim for writing and presenting the BBC/NTA documentary “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches.” This documentary, which critically examined corruption in Nigeria and the environmental degradation in the Niger Delta, remains a definitive work on these issues. Onwenu also hosted popular television shows such as “Contact” (1988) and “Who’s On?” (1993) on the NTA Network, further cementing her status as a prominent media figure.
Onyeka Onwenu’s music career began in 1981 with the release of her debut album “For the Love of You,” while she was still working with NTA. This pop album included an orchestral cover of Johnny Nash’s “Hold Me Tight” and was produced by Berkley Jones. Her second album, “Endless Life,” produced by Sonny Okosun, featured another cover, the Everly Brothers’ “Walk Right Back,” and was released under the EMI label.
Her musical journey took a significant turn in 1984 with her first album under the Polygram label, “In The Morning Light,” recorded in London. The album featured the track “Masterplan,” written by her close friend Tyna Onwudiwe, who also contributed backup vocals. In 1986, she released “One Love,” which included an updated version of the song “(In the) Morning Light” from her previous album and “You and I,” later re-recorded for the 2001 film “Conspiracy.”
Originally a secular artist, Onwenu transitioned to gospel music in the 1990s. She penned and performed songs addressing critical social issues such as HIV/AIDS awareness, peace, women’s rights, and children’s welfare. Her music, characterized by its poignant lyrics and soulful melodies, resonated deeply with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
Onyeka Onwenu was not just an entertainer but also a passionate advocate for human rights and social justice. Her activism was deeply rooted in her personal experiences and her commitment to making a difference. In 2013, she was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development, where she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Nigerian women.
She also served as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture, where she played a pivotal role in promoting Nigerian arts and culture. Her efforts in this role earned her widespread respect and recognition.
Onyeka Onwenu’s musical evolution continued with her 1988 album, “Dancing In The Sun”, which marked a significant shift towards a more Afrocentric sound. This album featured a notable collaboration with veteran jùjú artist Sunny Ade on the track “Madawolohun (Let Them Say)”. This song was the first of three collaborations between the two artists; the other two tracks, “Choices” and “Wait For Me,” focused on family planning and were endorsed by the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria. “Choices” even became part of their public service announcements, highlighting Onwenu’s influence in social advocacy through her music.
“Dancing In The Sun”, which was Onwenu’s final release with Polygram, included the powerful track “Winnie Mandela,” dedicated to the South African activist. Onwenu performed this song live in 1990 when Nelson Mandela and his wife visited Nigeria following his release from prison, demonstrating her commitment to using her art to honor global icons and advocate for justice.
In 1992, Onwenu transitioned to Benson and Hedges Music and released the self-titled album “Onyeka!”, her only album with the label. This period marked her transition to Christian and gospel music, culminating in her collection *Inspiration for Change*, which focused on promoting attitudinal change in Nigeria. Onwenu’s partnership with Paris-based La Cave Musik, headed by Nigerian cultural entrepreneur Onyeka Nwelue, and UK-based Jungle Entertainment Ventures, led by musicologist David Evans-Uhegbu, resulted in the release of her collection titled “Rebirth of a Legend”. This collaboration highlighted her enduring relevance in the music industry and her continuous contribution to the arts.
In recognition of her contributions to music and arts in Nigeria, Onwenu was celebrated by notable professionals such as Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Laolu Akins, Charles O’Tudor, and former Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) president Tony Okoroji, among others. These accolades underscored her status as a revered figure in the Nigerian arts scene.
Onwenu’s versatility extended to the realm of reality television when she served as one of the three judges on “X Factor Nigeria” in 2013. This role showcased her ability to mentor and inspire upcoming talents, further cementing her influence in the entertainment industry.
Onwenu’s acting career began with her debut role as Joke, a childless woman who adopts an abandoned baby, in Zik Zulu Okafor’s “Nightmare”. Her performance opened the doors to numerous roles in Nollywood, the burgeoning Nigerian film industry. In 2006, she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in the movie “Widow’s Cot”. That same year, she was also nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in “Rising Moon”. Her acting prowess continued to shine in critically acclaimed films such as “Half of a Yellow Sun” (2014), alongside Chiwetel Ejiofor and Thandiwe Newton, and “Lionheart” (2018).
Onyeka Onwenu was an active member of the People’s Democratic Party. She made two attempts to become the Local Council Chairman of Ideato North Local Government Area in Imo State, though she did not win. Nonetheless, she was appointed Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture by former governor Ikedi Ohakim. Her political career reached a significant milestone on 16 September 2013, when President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan appointed her as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development. In this role, Onwenu championed women’s rights and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of women across Nigeria.
Onwenu’s activism was not limited to politics; she was also a vocal advocate for artists’ rights. In 2000, she protested against her former employer, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), over their refusal to pay royalties for her songs. NTA 2 Channel 5 had used “Iyogogo,” a track from her *Onyeka!* album, in station idents without her permission. After then-director general Ben Murray-Bruce blacklisted her from transmission, Onwenu embarked on a hunger strike outside the station’s premises. This protest garnered widespread support from various artists, including Charly Boy, who criticized Nigeria’s reluctance to pay royalties when songs were broadcast on television and radio. After six days, Onwenu and NTA reached an amicable arrangement regarding royalties, and the protest was called off.
Onyeka Onwenu’s final years were as impactful as the rest of her illustrious career. Tragically, on 30 July 2024, she collapsed while performing at a friend’s birthday party in Lagos. She was immediately taken to Reddington Hospital, where she was confirmed dead.
Discography
For the Love of You
Endless Life
In the Morning Light
Watch Your Step
Collectors Choice
Dancing in the Sun
One Love
The Best of Onyeka Onwen
Happiness and Tears
Legends: Onyeka Onwenu
Iyogogo
Bia Nulu
Ekwe
You and I
Wait for Me
Filmography
Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)
Mothers-in-Law (2014)
The Royal Hibiscus Hotel (2017)
Lionheart (2018
Women’s Cot (2002)
The Wedding Party 2 (2017)
My Village People (2021)
Awards & Nominations
Onyeka Onwenu’s illustrious career was marked by numerous honors and accolades, celebrating her significant contributions to music, film, and social advocacy. She was a recipient of prestigious Nigerian national honors, including the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), a testament to her impact on the country’s cultural landscape.
In the realm of acting, Onwenu was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in the 2005 film “Rising Moon” at the 2006 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). Her portrayal of complex characters earned her acclaim, and she won the AMAA award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in “Female Criminals” in the same year.
Personal Life
Onyeka Onwenu was known for her private nature, particularly concerning her personal life. She often chose to keep details about her family and relationships out of the public eye. Onwenu was married to a Yoruba Muslim, though she rarely spoke about her ex-husband in public. Together, they had two children: Tijani Charles and Abraham.
Social Media
In the digital age, Onyeka Onwenu continued to connect with her fans and followers through social media. She amassed over 54,000 followers on Instagram (@onyekaonwenu), where she shared glimpses of her life, work, and ongoing projects.
Net Worth
Despite her extensive career and numerous accolades, Onyeka Onwenu maintained a modest lifestyle. At the time of her passing, her net worth was estimated to be around $500,000. This figure reflects not only her success but also her dedication to her craft and her commitment to using her platform for advocacy and social change.
