Onyeka Onwenu Biography
Onyeka Onwenu, born on January 31, 1952, was a multifaceted Nigerian icon whose influence spanned music, film, broadcasting, and politics. Renowned as the “Elegant Stallion,” Onwenu’s dynamic career included celebrated roles as a singer, songwriter, actress, journalist, and human rights activist. Her contributions to Nigerian culture were profound, from her impactful documentaries and gospel music to her significant political roles, including serving as the Executive Director of the National Centre for Women Development. Onwenu’s legacy is marked by her dedication to social justice and cultural enrichment, making her a cherished and pivotal figure in African history.
Onyeka Onwenu Biography: Early Life and Education
Onyeka Onwenu, born on January 31, 1952, in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, emerged as one of the most influential figures in African culture. Raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, she was the youngest daughter of D. K. Onwenu, a renowned educationist and politician. Tragically, her father died in a car crash just before his appointment as Minister for Education, leaving her mother, Hope, to raise five children under challenging circumstances.
Onwenu’s academic journey took her to prestigious institutions abroad. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College in Massachusetts and later completed a Master’s degree in Media Studies at The New School for Social Research in New York. Before returning to Nigeria in 1980 to fulfill her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) obligation with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), she worked as a tour guide for the United Nations.
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Broadcasting Career
Onwenu’s career at NTA was marked by significant contributions. She made headlines with the internationally acclaimed BBC/NTA documentary Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches in 1984, a critical examination of corruption and environmental issues in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. Her role as a newsreader and reporter at NTA further established her as a formidable voice in Nigerian media. She also hosted prominent TV shows such as Contact and Who’s On? on NTA Network.
Musical Achievements
Onwenu’s music career began with a pop album, For the Love of You, in 1981, but it was her transition to gospel music in the 1990s that marked a new chapter. Her albums, including Endless Life and Dancing In The Sun, showcased her versatility and commitment to addressing social issues. Her 1992 self-titled album with Benson and Hedges Music was followed by a successful partnership with La Cave Musik and Jungle Entertainment Ventures. Her latest collection, Rebirth of a Legend, was highly anticipated and celebrated by industry peers.
Onyeka Onwenu Biography: Acting and Political Involvement
Onwenu’s acting career took off with her role in Zik Zulu Okafor’s Nightmare. She won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2006 for Widow’s Cot and was also nominated for Best Actress in Rising Moon. Her notable appearances included Half of a Yellow Sun (2014) and Lion Heart (2018).
In the realm of politics, Onwenu was a member of the People’s Democratic Party and made two unsuccessful bids for Local Council Chairman of Ideato North Local Government Area. Despite these setbacks, she was appointed Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and later served as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development in 2013.
Onyeka Onwenu Biography: Activism and Legacy
Onwenu was a staunch advocate for artists’ rights and social justice. Her protest against NTA in 2000, demanding payment for royalties on her songs, garnered significant support from the artistic community. Her activism led to a resolution with NTA after a six-day hunger strike.
Personal Life and Death
Onwenu’s personal life remained largely private. She was a mother of two, Tijani Charles and Abraham. On July 30, 2024, Onwenu passed away at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing following a performance at a friend’s birthday party. Her death marked the end of a remarkable era for a woman who profoundly impacted Nigerian culture through her diverse talents and tireless activism.
Onyeka Onwenu’s legacy as the “Elegant Stallion” endures in the realms of music, film, broadcasting, and politics, where her influence and dedication have left an indelible mark.
Disclaimer
The information in this article was curated from Wikipedia. All details cannot be independently verified by Daily News 24 or its editorial team.
