Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has taken to social media to mourn veteran entertainer, Onyeka Onwenu, who died on Tuesday night, July 30.
In a statement released on social media, Obi recounted how Ms Onwenu slumped at the party they were both attending in Lagos. A video shared online showed late Onyeka singing at the party and walking to a table to greet Obi.
Detailing her final moments, Obi wrote;
‘’Yesterday provided a very devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory. I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu, performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.
It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital.
I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life , doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone. Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.
My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.
Onwenu was a national treasure, a shining star who inspired generations with her music, activism, and strong dedication to the arts. Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire nation, and she will be deeply missed.
I want to thank everyone who together with us accompanied her to the hospital yesterday. Special thanks to Mr. and Mrs John Momoh, Mr and Mrs Okonkwo, and Mr Okpara, who were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined us also and Mr. Femi Ajayi who equally returned to the hospital this morning when we had to finalized everything about her passing. May her soul rest in peace and may her legacy continue to inspire and unite us all.
My condolences to her family, the entertainment industry, and the nation at large. May we find solace in the memories we shared with her and the impact she had on our lives.”
