Former Minister of Education Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigerian music legend Onyeka Onwenu, calling it “shocking and extremely tragic.”
#### Tribute to Onwenu
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ezekwesili paid tribute to Onwenu, highlighting her multifaceted contributions to Nigerian arts and culture:
– **Versatile Talents**: Ezekwesili praised Onwenu’s exceptional talents across various fields, including journalism, songwriting, music, acting, and producing.
– **Notable Achievements**: She recalled Onwenu’s impactful career, including her work as a captivating journalist in the 1980s with NTA and her significant contribution to Nigerian governance discourse through the BBC World documentary “A Squandering of Riches.”
– **Musical Legacy**: Ezekwesili celebrated Onwenu’s musical achievements, including her tribute to her mother in the song “Ochie Dike Mama,” which has become an anthem for mothers since 2010.
#### Personal Reflections
– **Political Career**: Ezekwesili noted Onwenu’s political career, which followed in the footsteps of her father, D.K. Onwenu. She also mentioned the influence of Onwenu’s mother, Dame Hope Onwenu, recalling how her passing in 2011 affected many.
– **Loss and Condolences**: Ezekwesili extended her condolences to Onwenu’s family, including her two sons and siblings. She expressed heartfelt sympathy and wished for divine comfort and peace for the bereaved family.
#### Onwenu’s Passing
Onyeka Onwenu, 72, passed away on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at a birthday party where she had performed. Her death has left a significant void in Nigeria’s cultural and artistic landscape.
Ezekwesili’s tribute reflects the profound impact Onwenu had on Nigerian culture and the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew and admired her.
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