Nigerians were struck with shock and sadness on Wednesday following the death of iconic singer Onyeka Onwenu at the age of 72. Onwenu passed away on Tuesday night at Lagos’ Reddington Hospital after collapsing during the 80th birthday celebration of Mrs. Stella Okoli, CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, where she had performed.

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, was among the dignitaries at the event. He recounted the dramatic events of that night, stating, “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’.”

Obi continued, “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 over two hours of intense medical efforts, Onwenu was pronounced dead. Her children confirmed her passing in a statement: “It is with heavy hearts that my brother and I wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much-loved Onyeka Onwenu.” They described their mother as an “icon and legend” whose contributions to music, acting, philanthropy, and humanitarian efforts inspired multiple generations.

President Bola Tinubu, in a condolence statement, mourned the “Queen of Songs” and celebrated her contributions to music and public good. “President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition, ‘One Love’, in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony,” the statement read.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also paid tribute, noting Onwenu’s extraordinary talent and impact on African values. “Her extraordinary talent, creativity and contributions to unity and African values exemplified in her iconic song ‘One Love Keep Us Together’ has left an indelible mark on the world of music,” she said.

Governors, including Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and Peter Mbah of Enugu State, joined in mourning, with Obaseki describing Onwenu as a “gift to her generation” and Mbah referring to her as a “nightingale and a music icon.”

The Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, expressed sorrow at the loss of a “true patriot” whose music promoted unity and cultural identity. The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and other entertainment industry figures also expressed their grief.

Legendary Fuji musician Adewale Ayuba and Nigerian activist Charles Oputa, known as Charly Boy, were among those who paid tribute, highlighting Onwenu’s profound impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.

The death of Onyeka Onwenu, who was born in Obosi, Anambra State in 1952, marks a significant loss to Nigeria’s cultural and musical landscape. As fans and fellow artists mourn, her legacy as a beloved singer, actress, and advocate will continue to inspire future generations.