Onyeka Onwenu’s legacy isn’t just about her musical genius or her acting prowess—it’s the way she wove herself into Nigeria’s cultural narrative. She was more than just a singer or actress; she was a storyteller, a voice for change, and a beacon of strength for women across the country.
Born in 1952, Onwenu’s career took off in the 1980s when she started releasing music that was both heartfelt and socially conscious. Her voice was heard in songs and echoed through the corridors of activism. Long before social media made activism trendy, Onwenu was using her platform to speak on issues that mattered. Take, for instance, her collaboration with King Sunny Ade in 1989 on the song “Choices”. At a time when discussions around consent and birth control were almost non-existent in Nigeria, she boldly tackled these subjects in a way that was both artistic and educational. The song was a conversation starter, pushing the envelope in a society where such topics were often swept under the rug.
Her activism didn’t stop there. In 1984, when Fela Kuti, the revolutionary musician, was jailed by the military government, Onwenu was one of the voices that called for his release. She knew the power of her influence and wasn’t afraid to use it to fight for what she believed in. This aspect of her life made her a hero to many, not just for her music, but for her courage to speak truth to power.
But let’s not forget the thing that made Onyeka Onwenu a household name – the music. She dabbled in different genres and mastered them. From soul and disco to highlife and gospel, her versatility was unmatched. Her songs went from mere melodies to anthems. One of her most famous tracks, One Love, became what can only be described as a movement. It captured the hearts of millions, crossing borders and uniting people with its message of peace and unity.
Another standout was *Ekwe*, a track that captured the energy of Nigerian pop culture in the early 80s. Its infectious beat and catchy melody made it an instant hit, solidifying Onwenu’s place as a musical powerhouse. And then there was *Wait for Me*, her collaboration with King Sunny Ade. The song explored relationships with a depth that was rare in popular music at the time. Onwenu’s vocals, combined with Ade’s mastery of juju music, created a synergy that remains unparalleled.
Onyeka’s talents didn’t stop at music- she made a seamless transition into Nollywood, debuting in the 1999 film *Nightmare*. Though this was her first foray into acting, it certainly wasn’t her last. Over the years, she appeared in several films, each time bringing her unique blend of grace and strength to the screen. She wasn’t just playing characters; she was bringing them to life.
In *Widows Cot*, a 2005 family drama, Onwenu took on the role of Adanma, a socialite and stakeholder in a powerful women’s group. The film, which also starred Joke Silva and Zack Orji, tackled the controversial issue of widowhood practices in Nigeria, where women are often stripped of their rights after their husbands’ deaths. Onwenu’s performance was nothing short of captivating, adding another layer to her already impressive resume.
Then came *Rising Moon*, where she played Ulomma, a character that earned her an AMAA nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role. The film was a huge success, winning six awards at the 2006 AMAA and further cementing Onwenu’s status as a Nollywood star.
Her role as Mama in *Half Of A Yellow Sun*, the film adaptation of Chimamanda Adichie’s novel, showed another side of Onwenu’s acting chops. Playing the overbearing mother who disapproves of her son’s relationship, Onwenu brought depth and nuance to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. Her portrayal was a reminder that even in supporting roles, she could steal the show.
In *Lionheart*, Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial debut, Onwenu played the mother of the protagonist, adding her voice to a film that addressed workplace sexism and family dynamics. The film was Nigeria’s first-ever submission for the Oscars and was a critical and commercial success, further showcasing Onwenu’s ability to adapt to the evolving Nollywood.
But perhaps one of her most touching performances came in *God Calling*, a Christian drama where she played the mother of Francis, a man struggling with his faith after the loss of his child. The film had a profound narrative of love, redemption, and the strength it takes to rebuild after tragedy.
Onwenu’s later work, such as *Ije Awele*, where she portrayed a woman supporting a young girl through abuse and healing, showed that she hadn’t lost her touch. If anything, her roles became more profound as she aged, reflecting the wisdom and experience she had gained over the years.
Onyeka Onwenu was trailblazer, a woman who used her talents to break barriers and challenge societal norms. Her legacy isn’t just in the songs she sang or the movies she starred in but in the lives she touched and the doors she opened for future generations. Whether on stage, on screen, or in real life, Onyeka Onwenu was a force to be reckoned with—a true Nigerian icon whose impact will be felt for years to come. As she has just been laid to rest after her recent passing, we commiserate with her family, friends, and fans, and wish her soul perfect peace.
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