The family of late music icon Onyeka Onwenu fulfilled her final request by laying her to rest in a private and quiet ceremony in Lagos. Onyeka, who passed away suddenly on July 30 after collapsing at the 80th birthday celebration of Dr. Stella Okoli, the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, had previously expressed how she wished to be remembered and buried.
In her own words, Onyeka had requested, “Do it quickly, quietly and privately. Celebrate me with prayers, lunch or dinner afterwards. Share some jokes about me and laugh. Make merriment and then go about your business. If my friends want to celebrate with me, they should do so while I am alive, so that I can enjoy it with them, not when I am gone and have no idea about this.”
The family honored her wishes with a funeral devoid of unnecessary fanfare. The service was held at the Fountain of Life Church in Ilupeju, Lagos, and was followed by a private burial at the Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi.
The funeral service began with a solemn hymn, leading the late singer’s body into the church. Pallbearers dressed in traditional Igbo attire carried the casket, accompanied by her two sons, Tijani and Abraham Ogunlende.
After the service, her body was transported in a hearse to the final resting place in Ikoyi, with the procession leaving at about 2 p.m. The ceremony was intimate, with only close family members, friends, and selected dignitaries in attendance.
Among those present were former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, Dr. Stella Okoli, and notable musicians like Orits Williki and Tee Mac Omatshola-Itseli. The small gathering reflected the late icon’s wishes for a peaceful and private farewell.
Onyeka Onwenu was not only a celebrated musician with a string of hits but also a broadcaster, actress, politician, and activist. Born on January 31, 1952, in Imo State, she began her music career in 1981 while still working with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
Her debut album, “For the Love of You,” featured an orchestral cover of Johnny Nash’s “Hold Me Tight” and was produced by Berkley Jones. Her follow-up album, “Endless Life,” produced by Sonny Okosun, further solidified her place in the music industry.
Known as the “Elegant Stallion,” Onyeka Onwenu rose to fame with her distinctive voice, meaningful lyrics, and significant contributions to the arts and society. Her quiet and dignified burial echoed the grace and poise she embodied throughout her life.