Onyeka Onwenu, affectionately known as “The Elegant Stallion,” was an iconic figure in Nigerian music, film, and politics. Her life was a tapestry of remarkable achievements, challenges, and unwavering dedication to her craft and country.
Early Life and Education
Born on January 31, 1952, in the Arondizuogu area of Imo State, Onyeka Onwenu came from a prominent family. Her father, D.K. Onwenu, was a respected educationist and politician. Tragically, he died in an auto crash when Onyeka was just four years old, a week before his appointment as Nigeria’s Minister for Education.
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Onyeka pursued higher education in the United States, earning a BA in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College, Massachusetts, and an MA in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research in New York. This academic background laid a strong foundation for her multifaceted career.
Career Beginnings and Music
Onyeka began her professional journey working for the United Nations as a tour guide before returning to Nigeria in 1980. She completed her mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Lagos, where she made a significant impact as a reporter.
Her groundbreaking documentary, “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches,” co-produced with the BBC, brought international attention to issues of corruption and resource mismanagement in Nigeria.
In 1981, Onyeka transitioned into music, releasing her debut album “For the Love of You” while still working at NTA.
She initially pursued a secular music career, producing hits like “Endless Life,” “In The Morning Light,” and “One Love.” Her collaboration with jùjú legend King Sunny Ade on the track “Madawolohun (Let Them Say)” is still celebrated.
In the 1990s, Onyeka shifted to gospel music, where she continued to write and perform songs that addressed social issues such as health, peace, and women’s rights.
Acting and Filmmaking
Onyeka’s talents were not confined to music alone. She ventured into acting, debuting in the film “Nightmare” in 1996.
Her performance in “Widow’s Cot” won her the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in 2006. Onyeka also featured in internationally acclaimed films like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Lionheart,” where she showcased her versatility as an actress.
Political and Social Activism
Onyeka was an active member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and twice contested the position of Local Government Chairperson in her native Imo State. Although she did not win, she served as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013.
Her activism extended beyond politics. In 2000, Onyeka staged a hunger strike to protest against the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) for using her song without paying royalties. This bold move highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerian artists and led to a resolution in her favour.
Personal Life and Legacy
Onyeka Onwenu kept her personal life private, rarely discussing her marriage and family. She is survived by her two children, Tijani Charles and Abraham.
Onyeka’s autobiography, “My Father’s Daughter,” published in 2020, offers a glimpse into her private life and the experiences that shaped her formidable career.
Onyeka Onwenu passed away on July 30, 2024, after collapsing at the 80th birthday celebration of Stella Okolie, CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. Her sudden death marked the end of an era, but her legacy as a trailblazer in music, film, and social activism will continue to inspire future generations.
Onyeka Onwenu’s life was a testament to the power of talent, resilience, and dedication. From her early days at NTA to her final performances, she remained a beacon of excellence and an advocate for justice and equality. Her contributions to Nigerian culture and society are immeasurable, and her memory will forever be cherished.
