Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has joined other concerned Nigerians in mourning the death of veteran musician Onyeka Onwenu, who passed away on Tuesday. He described her passing as the departure of a nightingale and a music icon.
Mbah stated that the recent losses of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, the lawmaker representing Anambra South Senatorial District, alongside Onwenu, have left a profound void in the hearts of Ndigbo, Nigerians, Africans, and the global music community.
Reflecting on this tragic news on Wednesday, Mbah remarked, “This is yet another sorrowful event for the nation and for Ndigbo in particular. Following the deaths of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and Distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Onyeka Onwenu’s sudden passing is a loss too great, leaving a gaping hole in our hearts. As the late Ghanaian poet and diplomat Kofi Awoonor expressed, death has indeed waged war upon our home.
“Onyeka Onwenu was a music icon, a remarkable songstress, and a true nightingale. She was born to sing and fulfilled her earthly mission in unforgettable ways, earning numerous accolades in the process.
“She was also a woman of tremendous courage, a social advocate, a patriot, and a fierce champion of her people, never shying away from speaking out in defense of truth, justice, and equity.
“Onwenu will be deeply missed, but it is comforting to know that she lived life to the fullest, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of humanity. Like all legends, she will be remembered for generations to come. I pray that God grants her soul eternal peace and provides comfort to her family, the nation, and indeed, Africa.”
Onwenu’s sons, Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende, officially announced their mother’s passing on Wednesday.
“It is with heavy hearts that my brother and I announce the passing of our beloved mother, Onyeka Onwenu,” the statement reads in part.
They went on to explain that the multitalented artist passed away in Lagos on Tuesday night.
