Renowned Nigerian artist Onyeka Onwenu, a talented singer, songwriter, actress, and humanitarian, passed away at the age of 72 on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, shortly after a performance, leaving behind a legacy of her impressive work across multiple industries.
Onyeka Onwenu, a highly revered Nigerian media and entertainment legend, launched her music career in the 1980s and later transitioned to acting in the 1990s with her debut role in the film “Joke”, solidifying her status as a multi-talented icon in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Onyeka Onwenu had a prolific acting career, appearing in many Nigerian films, and received critical acclaim with her award-winning performance in “Widow’s Cot”, earning her the 2006 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She also received a nomination for Best Leading Actress that same year for her role in “Rising Moon”, further solidifying her talent and versatility as an actress.
In the religious drama directed by Bb Sasore, Onyeka Onwenu plays the role of Mama Francis, the wife of Papa Francis (played by Nkem Owoh), whose son rarely visits them since marrying into a wealthy family, leading to feelings of bitterness and resentment.
The 2005 family drama “Widows Cot”, directed by Dickson Ireogbu, sheds light on a harmful cultural tradition where a deceased man’s family seizes his assets, leaving his widow penniless. The film follows a strong women’s group that initially challenges this practice but eventually succumbs to corruption, highlighting the struggles and complexities of fighting for social change.
This captivating musical film revolves around Oluchi, a rising musician, who is compelled to face her authentic identity and past errors after her estranged father’s passing. Onyeka Onwenu stars as Nwakaego in this emotional journey that explores themes of love, life, and mortality, as Oluchi navigates her complex relationships and personal growth.
In the film “Lion Heart”, directed by Genevieve Nnaji, Onyeka Onwenu portrays Abigail Obiagu, the mother of Adaeze and wife of Chief Ernest Obiagu. The movie explores the challenges of navigating sexist work environments and the struggle to balance family obligations with personal ambition, as Adaeze faces gender-based obstacles on her journey to success.
In the historical war film, Onyeka Onwenu plays Mama, the disapproving mother of Odenigbo, who vehemently opposes his relationship with Olanna, even going so far as to call her a witch.
In an attempt to sabotage their relationship, Mama manipulates Odenigbo by plying him with alcohol and orchestrating a one-night encounter with her helper, Amala, in a desperate bid to drive a wedge between Odenigbo and Olanna.
