Five of the Best Performances by the Iconic Onyeka Onwenu
The prominent singer, actress and activist, Onyeka Onwenu has passed away, but her legacy lives on, especially in these five stellar performances.
Onyeka Onwenu, known as the “Elegant Stallion,” was a distinguished figure in the Nigerian entertainment and broadcast scene. A celebrated singer, actress, journalist, activist, and politician, Onwenu passed away last night at a hospital in Lagos after suddenly collapsing following her performance at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okolie, CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.
Onwenu achieved national fame with her love songs in both English and Igbo, as well as her tracks addressing themes of peace and unity. Even more, she made significant contributions to the film industry with roles in award-winning movies.
Before her music career, Onwenu worked as a journalist for the state-owned Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she gained recognition for her in-depth reporting on social issues. Her career also included serving as chair of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and as a judge on Nigerian X-Factor. In 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed her executive director of the National Centre for Women Development, and for her contributions to Nigerian entertainment, Onwenu received the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and in 2011, the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) national honors.
Describing Onwenu as an icon doesn’t scratch the surface of her impact on Nigerian activism, music and film. Though the country has lost a legend, her legacy continues through her works. To celebrate her memory, we have compiled five of her best performances across music and film.
"You and I"
Onwenu’s love ballad serenades us with the promise of eternal love and commitment. Initially released in the 1980s, the song resonated deeply with Nigerians, becoming popular at weddings and romantic occasions. Its re-recording for the 2001 film “Conspiracy,” starring Onwenu and Nkem Owoh, renewed its classic status and introduced it to a new generation. The song’s emotional depth, heartfelt message, and Onwenu’s powerful vocal performance earned widespread acclaim, and remains a beloved classic.
"One Love"
If you’d like a compelling song about unity and peace without a self-righteous undertone, look no further than Onwenu’s “One Love.” In the song, Onwenu promotes harmony and collective progress with a powerful and uplifting message. Released in 1991, during a time of social and political unrest in Nigeria, it quickly became an anthem for national unity. “One Love” not only reinforced Onwenu’s prominence in Nigerian music but also her role in social activism. Given today’s economic challenges and civil unrest, this classic remains a vital reminder of its unifying message and cultural importance.
Collaborations with King Sunny Ade
Onwenu’s discography includes teaming up with Nigerian Jùjú icon King Sunny Ade on the tracks “Choices,” and “Wait for Me” to advocate for family planning. This groundbreaking partnership merged pop culture with social advocacy, sparking widespread discussions in Nigeria about planned parenthood. The impactful messages in these songs heightened public awareness and acceptance of family planning, influencing future artists to address social issues through music — a legacy that endures today.
'Widow’s Cot'
“Widows? Freedom!”
Released in three parts in 2005, Widow’s Cot features Onwenu alongside Joke Silva and Zack Orji, showcasing one of her most compelling performances. The film portrays a group of women who aid widows – often mistreated and marginalized after their husbands’ deaths in Nigerian society. What begins as a noble effort eventually takes a dark and corrupt turn. Onwenu’s portrayal of the resolute Ada earned her the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role in 2006, solidifying her reputation as a formidable actress.
'Half of a Yellow Sun'
In Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Half of a Yellow Sun, Mama is a strong, traditional woman who reflects the struggles and resilience of women during the Nigerian Civil War. In Biyi Bandele’s 2013 film adaptation, Onwenu delivers a powerful performance as Mama, the mother of Odenigbo (Chiwetel Ejiofor). Her portrayal is authentic and inimitable, showcasing Onwenu’s remarkable acting skills. While the film received mixed reviews, Onwenu’s role is a clear highlight, contributing memorably to the film’s portrayal of family dynamics amid historical turmoil.