The passing of Nigerian music icon Onyeka Onwenu has been deeply mourned. It has been announced that her burial will take place today, August 30, 2024.
According to Punch Newspapers, the service of songs for the beloved singer, fondly known as the “Elegant Stallion,” will be held at the Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju. Following this, the burial and funeral will take place at Lekki Vaults and Gardens, Lagos.
According to an eyewitness present at the party, Onwenu collapsed shortly after her performance. The eyewitness confirmed this tragic event saying,
“It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs Stella Okoli today, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital and she couldn’t make it.“
Another eyewitness said,
“I have never seen anything like this before. She had just come down from the stage after performing energetically and admirably as always. And went to her seat where she slumped. It is still like a dream.”
Onyeka Onwenu, a renowned Nigerian singer and social activist, was born on January 31, 1952, in Imo State. She embarked on her music career in the early 1980s, quickly gaining recognition for her powerful voice and meaningful lyrics. Her music often addressed pressing social issues, earning her the nickname “Elegant Stallion.”
Onwenu’s sudden passing on July 30, 2024, came as a shock to Nigerians both at home and abroad. Indeed, her death deeply touched the hearts of her colleagues, fans, and those inspired by her legacy. May she rest in peace.
Nollywood filmmaker Omoni Oboli disclosed that she exchanged her scripts for acting roles early in her career, which motivated her to pursue directing.
In an interview with Radionow 95.3 FM, Oboli recounted the challenges she faced at the start of her filmmaking journey, including giving away her screenplays for free and trying to direct her own films.
“I was trading my scripts, I’d say you know what, just take it, don’t pay me. Just give me a role in the film. So, I started to do that. But then I’ll watch the film and I realised, Okay it’s not quite what I had in my head when I was writing cos I see what I’m writing, I write in pictures. I see what I’m writing, so when I’m watching the movie it’s so different. Not to say that it wasn’t good because no two directors will direct the same script in the same way. So I said to myself, if my stories are going to have my DNA, then I’m going to have to direct them myself,” she said.
Omoni Oboli emphasized that she felt hesitant at the beginning of her directing journey. She lacked confidence but mustered up the courage to pursue her dreams.
“And it was a scary thought, really who do you think you are to come and direct a film? Like who are you again? You know it was so scary, but then I said to myself, Warri no dey carry lass na. Wwetin dem get wey I no get? I was like, I’ll do this thing. So I started understudying directors, like I’m acting on set but I’m watching the director closely. And I said you know what? Maybe I need some formal education on this. So I went to the New York Film Academy for a short course,” she added.
The tragic death of his younger sister, Chioma, and her husband, George, in a gas explosion at their home devastated Nigerian Afrobeats artist Patoranking.
The Ebonyi Police Command has confirmed that a gas cylinder explosion, not an inverter battery, caused the deaths of Mr. and Mrs. George Onuabuchi. This happened in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State. According to DSP Joshua Ukandu, the state Command’s spokesperson, the tragic incident took place on August 25.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, Ukandu explained the preliminary investigations. He revealed a gas leak triggered the explosion, leading to the couple’s deaths. Also, he emphasized that early reports suggesting an inverter battery malfunction were incorrect. Further, the gas cylinder was identified as the actual cause of the fatal blast.
“It happened on the waterworks axis in Abakaliki on August 25. The residents living around the scene called the attention of our personnel who visited the place but the couple has already been taken to hospital.
“It’s very unfortunate that both finally died. The wife, Chioma died sometime in August while the husband died this month, September.
“We gathered that the wife was a younger sister to the popular Nigerian Afrobeat singer, Patoranking.
“There are no much details because the victims could not survive to tell the story. So, what killed them was gas and not inverter explosion,” the police spokesman explained.
A relative, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed concern about the incident to NAN. However, he described it as a distressing event that has had a negative impact on the family.
“They were young couple. They had only a child, a three-year-old son.
“Please I have more to say. I cannot say more than this. They have gone,” the relative said.
Mohbad, a man of influence, seamlessly blended Fuji, Afrobeats, and Hip Hop to create songs that reflected his unique artistry and genuine spirit. His songs, ranging from Street Hop anthems to introspective narratives about life’s challenges, offered both joy and comfort to his audience.
On September 12, 2023, the music world was saddened by the tragic news of Mohbad’s passing. A year later, artists and fans continue to pay tribute to this talented musician who captivated listeners with his vibrant music.
In commemoration of his one-year remembrance, here are seven unforgettable songs that showcase the exceptional musical talent of Mohbad:
Rexxie feat Mohbad – Ko Por Ke (2020)
One of the most iconic songs in the history of Street-Hop, “Ko Por Ke” was a cultural phenomenon that left an indelible mark on Nigerian music. The song’s infectious rhythm and Mohbad’s captivating lyrics resonated deeply with listeners, propelling him to mainstream success and showcasing his extraordinary talent.
Marlian Anthem (2020)
Signed to Marlian Records during the peak of Naira Marley’s influence, Mohbad created “Marlian Anthem,” a mesmerizing anthem that embodied the movement’s rebellious spirit and challenged societal norms. However, the relationship between Mohbad and Marlian Records eventually soured, adding a bittersweet layer to the song’s significance.
Holy (2020)
Taken from his debut EP “Light,” “Holy” offered a glimpse into Mohbad’s personal journey as he embraced his imperfections with a refreshing honesty. The song’s uplifting message encouraged listeners to accept their own flaws and find strength in vulnerability.
Feel Good (2021)
Demonstrating his versatility and musical prowess, Mohbad delivered a Neo-Fuji reinterpretation of James Brown’s classic “I Feel Good.” The song’s infectious energy and Mohbad’s unique style made it a massive hit, further solidifying his position as a distinctive talent in the Afrobeats scene.
Peace (2022)
In “Peace,” Mohbad candidly expressed his frustrations and longing for tranquillity amidst the challenges he faced in his career. The song’s raw emotion and powerful lyrics resonated deeply with fans, offering a glimpse into the artist’s inner struggles.
Ask About Me (2023)
Following his highly publicized departure from Marlian Records, Mohbad made a triumphant comeback with “Ask About Me.” The defiant song reaffirmed his determination to pursue his dreams and showcase his undeniable talent.
Tragically, just before his untimely passing, Mohbad collaborated with singer Chike on the joyful single “Egwu.” The song’s infectious energy and Mohbad’s brilliant performance quickly made it a mega-hit. “Egwu” served as a testament to Mohbad’s ability to spread joy and positivity through his music.
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