Nigerians on Wednesday received with shock and sadness the news of the passing of conic singer, Onyeka Onwenu, at the age of 72.
Onwenu, it was learnt, died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos, after slumping at the 80th birthday party of the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Stella Okoli, where she performed.
The high-class event had in attendance many dignitaries, including the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, who took to his X handle on Wednesday to recount how doctors battled to save the life of the iconic singer and activist.
Recalling Onwenu’s last moments, Obi wrote: “Yesterday provided a very devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory. I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu, performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.
“It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital.
“I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life, doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone.
“Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle. My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.”
