Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende, sons of Onyeka Onwenu, the late singer, have spoken about their mother’s passing.
Onwenu collapsed at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okoli, founder of Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company, in Lagos. She was confirmed dead at Reddington Hospital in Lagos.
In a statement on Wednesday, Onwenu’s sons revealed that the doctors “made every effort to save her life”.
They described their mother as a “national treasure, an icon and legend” whose impact will be deeply felt.
Abraham and Tijani also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the public and dignitaries.
“It is with heavy hearts that I and my brother wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu. She passed away last night, Tuesday July 30 2024, in Lagos Nigeria,” the statement reads.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed.
“We would like to extend our thanks to those who were with her in her final moments. And to the general public for their concern and support.
“Specifically, we are deeply grateful to Mr. Peter Obi, Mr. and Mrs. John Momoh and Mr. and Mrs. Okonkwo as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr. Okpara all of whom were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage.”
President Bola Tinubu, while paying his tribute to Onwenu, descibed her as a “versatile and extremely gifted artiste who applied herself to the whole gamut of artistic enterprise and expression, bringing joy and laughter to many”.
He added that her legacy will “live on in her immortal masterpieces”.
