President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday extended his condolences to the family of the late Onyeka Onwenu.
“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.
Also, former President Goodluck Jonathan expressed his condolences on the sudden death of the music icon, describing her as a true Nigerian icon who promoted good values.
Jonathan, in a statement by his Media Adviser, Mr Ikechukwu Eze, in Abuja on Wednesday, said that the country had lost a shining star whose achievements inspired many Nigerians.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of the famous journalist and songster, Onyeka Onwenu.
“As a nation, we have lost a shining star and a true Nigerian idol whose music, artistry, activism and humanitarian work inspired many across the country.
“She will be fondly remembered for her remarkable contributions to our country’s entertainment industry and her tireless efforts to promote good values.
“As a broadcaster, singer and actress, she did so much to promote the arts and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
“She also made her mark in public service and strove to improve the lot of women, especially while serving as the director-general of the National Centre for Women Development.”
The former president further said that Onwenu’s legacy would continue to inspire future generations, and her memory would continue to be cherished.
