By Halimah Olamide
Tributes are pouring in hours after the death of music icon, Onyeka Onwenu.
Onwenu died shortly after performing at a birthday event Tuesday evening in Lagos.
President Bola Tinubu, in a statement signed Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser on media,Was quoted asextending “his profound condolences to the family of the late Ms. Onyeka Onwenu.”
“Ms. Onwenu was a singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, activist, and politician.
“President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition, ‘One Love’, in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
“The President recalls the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting public good, noting her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me’, a melodic campaign on family planning in the 1980s.
“President Tinubu celebrates the life of the versatile and extremely gifted artiste who applied herself to the whole gamut of artistic enterprise and expression, bringing joy and laughter to many.
“The President condoles with the entertainment industry, the Imo State Government, and the numerous fans of the departed star over this immeasurable loss.
“President Tinubu prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased artiste and that she finds a place yonder where the music never fades and where there is ‘Dancing in the Sun’.
“The President states that Ms. Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said Onwenu made useful contributions through journalism and music.
“ I am so sad to learn of the passing of Onyeka Onwenu, MFR. Onyeka was a multi-talented woman whose impact would stand the test of time.
“She was a transformational journalist whose works, such as the documentary “Nigeria: The Squandering of Riches,” are timeless. Her musical prowess led to multiple hits, which will continue to resonate long after her exit. On behalf of my family,
“I express my deepest condolences to her beloved family and friends and the musical fraternity. May God grant her family the fortitude to bear her departure,” he said