Onyeka Onwenu Biography, Age, Death, Songs, Net Worth

Onyeka Onwenu is a celebrated Nigerian singer, actress, and activist, known for her impactful contributions to music, film, and social causes.

Onyeka Onwenu Biography

Onyeka Onwenu was born on January 31, 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, but she hails from Arondizuogu, in Ideato North LGA, Imo State, Nigeria. Onyeka grew up in Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State, and she was the youngest daughter of D. K. Onwenu, a respected Nigerian educationist and politician. Tragically, her father died in a car crash when she was just four years old, a week before he was to be appointed Minister for Education. This left her mother, Hope, to raise Onyeka and her four siblings alone, as her father’s family denied them access to his property.

Onyeka Onwenu’s Educational Background

Onwenu earned a BA in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College in Massachusetts, USA. She also obtained an MA in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research in New York.

Onyeka Onwenu Career

Music

Onyeka Onwenu began her music career in 1981 with the album For the Love of You. In the 1990s, she transitioned from secular to gospel music, using her songs to address important issues like health, peace, women’s rights, and children’s welfare. Some of her notable albums include Endless Life, One Love, and Dancing in the Sun.

Onyeka is also associated with Ayollo Productions Ltd, a company incorporated in Lagos, Nigeria where she serves as one of the owners and directors.

Acting

Onyeka Onwenu featured in many Nollywood films, winning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for “Women’s Cot” in 2006. Other notable films include “Half of a Yellow Sun,” “Lionheart,” and “Muna.”

Broadcasting and Journalism

She worked with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and produced the acclaimed documentary “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches” in 1984, highlighting corruption and environmental issues in Nigeria.

Read Also: Wole Soyinka Biography, Age, Playwright, Noble Prize

Politics and Activism

Onyeka Onwenu was an active member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and served as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture. In 2013, she was appointed Executive Director/CEO of the National Centre for Women Development by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Onyeka Onwenu Awards

Onyeka Onwenu received numerous awards, including the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for her contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Onyeka Onwenu Age

Onyeka Onwenu was 72 years old at the time of her death (2024), She was born on January 31, 1952.

Onyeka Onwenu Personal Life

Onyeka Onwenu kept her personal life private. She was married to a Yoruba Muslim and had two children, Tijani Charles and Abraham. She emphasized raising her children herself without the help of nannies.

Onyeka Onwenu Death

Onyeka Onwenu sadly passed away on July 30, 2024, shortly after performing at the birthday party of Stella Okoli, the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, in Lagos State, Nigeria. She collapsed at the event and could not be revived.

Onyeka Onwenu Husband

Onyeka Onwenu was married to a Yoruba Muslim man named Ogunlende. Together, they had two sons, Tijani and Ibrahim, with Ibrahim later changing his name to Abraham. Onyeka’s marriage faced several challenges, ultimately leading to a divorce. In a 2022 interview, she explained that she ended the marriage to preserve her sanity and well-being, despite her initial desire to keep the family together. She also refuted rumors of a romantic relationship with King Sunny Ade, attributing their close professional collaboration to the speculations.

Onyeka Onwenu Children

Onyeka Onwenu was a proud mother of two sons, Tijani Charles and Abraham. Despite her busy career and public life, she placed a strong emphasis on raising her children herself, often highlighting the importance of personal involvement in their upbringing. She chose to wait until they reached a certain age before fully engaging in politics and other demanding commitments.

Onyeka Onwenu Net Worth

Onyeka Onwenu has a net worth of about $270,000.This significant amount of money comes from various sources, including her successful career as a singer, songwriter, actress, and political activist. Additionally, her role as the former director of the National Centre for Women Development and various endorsements contribute to her wealth.

Despite her financial success, Onyeka believes her true wealth lies in the positive impact she has made on society and the strong relationships she has with her friends and family. She values these personal contributions and connections above her monetary achievements.

Onyeka Onwenu Social Media Handles

Onyeka Onwenu was active on social media, sharing updates about her work and advocacy. Her handles were:

• Twitter: @OnyekaOnwenu
• Instagram: @onyekaonwenu
• YouTube: Onyeka Onwenu

Onyeka Onwenu Songs

Some of Onyeka Onwenu’s popular songs include:

• “One Love”
• “You and I”
• “Iyogogo”
• “Ekwe”
• “Wait for Me” (with King Sunny Ade)

Onyeka Onwenu Movies

Onyeka Onwenu featured in numerous movies, some of which include:

• “Nightmare”
• “Women’s Cot”
• “Half of a Yellow Sun”
• “Lionheart”
• “Muna”