President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday extended his condolences to the family of the late Ms Onyeka Onwenu.
Onwenu collapsed after performing at a birthday party in Lagos and was rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
“Onwenu was a singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, activist, and politician,” the President said in a statement by his spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale.
The President said her edifying and mellifluous rendition, ‘One Love,’ in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
The President recalled the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting public good.
He noted her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me,’ a campaign on family planning in the 1980s.
“President Tinubu celebrates the life of the versatile and extremely gifted artiste who applied herself to the whole gamut of artistic enterprise and expression, bringing joy and laughter to many.
“The President condoles with the entertainment industry, the Imo State Government, and the numerous fans of the departed star over this immeasurable loss.
“President Tinubu prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased artiste,” said the statement.
Nigerians mourn
Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to express their shock and sadness at the news.
Many have shared tributes and condolences, praising Onwenu’s contributions to Nigerian music and her iconic status as the “Queen of Vocals”.
Below are reactions from lovers of the deceased:
So Fresh Bryant01 wrote: “So heartbroken. Rest in peace Queen mother of vocals.”
Jennifer Obasi.3517 wrote: “May the soul of the legendary singer rest in perfect peace.”
Redbee85 stated: “So sad may her soul rest in peace.”
Obioma Chinwanne wrote, “This one will definitely pain me! One of the nicest women I’ve ever known.”
Tmoney_1025 wrote, “Lord have mercy. May her soul rest in peace
Jemeelah1 wrote, “What kind of sad news is this.”
Didibanty_ wrote, “This is a rude shock!! Damn.
Olabisi Usidame wrote, “Wow! RIP Legend.
Lonas Beauty wrote, “This period just get as e be
Lasgidi2mogadishu wrote, “She passed doing what she loves. I celebrate her life and pray for a good passage and the strength for her family and friends to deal with their loss. May her soul rest in peace
