Who was Onyeka Onwenu? Meet the musician Husband and Children

Onyeka Onwenu, born on January 31, 1952, in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria, was a legendary figure in the Nigerian music and entertainment industry. Known as the “Elegant Stallion,” she left an indelible mark on the hearts of many with her soulful voice and captivating performances.

The youngest daughter of Nigerian educationist and politician D. K. Onwenu, Onyeka‘s early life was marked by tragedy when her father passed away in an auto crash when she was just four years old. Despite the loss, she persevered and carved a niche in music and entertainment.

Onyeka‘s music career took off in the late 1970s, and she quickly became known for her ability to blend traditional African music with contemporary styles. Her soulful voice and meaningful lyrics resonated with audiences, earning her a dedicated fan base.

In 1984, Onyeka married a Yoruba Muslim, Mr. Ogunlende, and the union produced two sons, Tijani Ogunlende and Ibrahim Ogunlende. While she has been private about her personal life, Onyeka was vocal about her role as a single mother, raising her children from kindergarten to the master’s degree level herself.

Beyond music, Onyeka had a successful acting career, featuring in several Nigerian movies and television series. She was also a renowned humanitarian involved in various social causes, including women’s rights and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Onyeka‘s contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry have not gone unnoticed. She was awarded the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for her outstanding work.

In 2024, the world mourned the loss of Onyeka Onwenu, who passed away at the age of 72 after performing at the birthday party of Mrs. Stella Chinyelu Okoli, the CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. Her legacy, however, lives on through her music, her humanitarian work, and the impact she made on the lives of those who knew her.