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BREAKING: Legendary Singer Onyeka Onwenu Slumps, Dies After Performing On Stage [PHOTOS]

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Renowned Nigerian music legend, Onyeka Onwenu, has passed away at the age of 72.

Born on January 31, 1952, she died at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing at a birthday celebration for Mrs. Stella Okoli, the founder of Emzor pharmaceutical company.

Onwenu had performed at the event, which was held to mark Okoli’s 80th birthday.

Witnesses initially thought her collapse was a prank, but sadly, it was confirmed that the music icon had indeed passed away.

“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.”

Another eyewitness said: “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.”

As at the time of going to press, TheNiche reliably gathered that even the doctors were in disbelief and are yet to take her body to the morgue.

Another source who was among the people that rushed her to the hospital said, “Apparently, she had a heart attack. The doctor has advised that the body should be kept until later this morning. It is unbelievable.”

Onyeka was a singer, songwriter, actress, human rights and social activist, journalist, politician, and former X Factor series judge.

Dubbed the “Elegant Stallion” by the Nigerian press, she is a former chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture.

In 2013 she was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.

Onwenu hailed from Arondizuogu, a town in Ideato North, Imo State, but was raised in Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State.

She was the youngest daughter of Nigerian educationist and politician D. K. Onwenu, who died when she was four years old in an autocrash a week before his appointment as Minister for Education, leaving his widow, Hope, to raise five children alone.

Onwenu possessed a BA in International Relations and Communication from Wellesley College, Massachusetts, and an MA in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research, New York.

She worked for the United Nations as a tour guide before returning to Nigeria in 1980 to complete her mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), in Lagos, Nigeria.

As an NTA employee, Onwenu made an impact as a newsreader and reporter. In 1984, she wrote and presented the internationally acclaimed BBC/NTA documentary “Nigeria: A Squandering of Riches,” which became the definitive film about corruption in Nigeria, as well as the intractable Niger Delta agitation for resource control and campaign against environmental degradation in the oil rich region of Nigeria.

A former member of the NTA board, she has also worked as a TV presenter, hosting the shows Contact (1988) and Who’s On? (1993) both on NTA Network.

  • Music

Originally a secular artist, Onwenu made the transition to gospel music in the 90s, and most of her songs are self-penned. She continued to write and sing about issues such as health (HIV/AIDS), peace and mutual coexistence, respect for women’s rights, and the plight of children.

She began her recording career in 1981 while still with the NTA, releasing the album For the Love of You, a pop album which featured an orchestral cover of Johnny Nash’s “Hold Me Tight”, produced by Berkley Jones. Her second album was Endless Life, produced by Sonny Okosun, and included another cover – the Everley Brothers’ “Walk Right Back”. Both records were released under the EMI label.

Onwenu’s first album with Polygram, In The Morning Light, was released in 1984. Recorded in London, it featured the track “Masterplan” written by close friend Tyna Onwudiwe who had previously contributed to Onwenu’s BBC documentary and subsequently sang back-up vocals on the album.

In 1986, she released One Love which contained an updated version of the song “(In the) Morning Light from the previous album. Another song, “You and I”, was re-recorded for the 2001 film Conspiracy starring Nkem Owoh and Onwenu herself.

For the 1988 album Dancing In The Sun, Onwenu adopted a more Afrocentric sound and collaborated with veteran jùjú artist Sunny Ade on the track “Madawolohun (Let Them Say)”. This was the first of three songs the pair worked on together; the other two – “Choices” and “Wait For Me” – centred on family planning, and were endorsed by the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria who used “Choices” in their PSA.

Dancing In The Sun, Onwenu’s final release on Polygram, was dedicated to Winnie Mandela, the subject of a song of the same name which Onwenu performed live when Nelson Mandela and his wife visited Nigeria in 1990 following his release from prison.

Onwenu diverted to Benson and Hedges Music in 1992 and released the self-titled Onyeka!, her only album with the label, after which she made the transition to Christian/gospel music. Her latest collection, “Inspiration for Change,” focused on the need for an attitudinal change in Nigeria.

  • Acting

Onwenu’s first movie role was as Joke, a childless woman who adopts an abandoned baby in Zik Zulu Okafor’s Nightmare.

She has since featured in numerous Nollywood movies, and in 2006 she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in the movie “Widow’s Cot”. She was also nominated that same year for Africa Movie Academy Award for “Best Actress in a Leading Role” in the movie “Rising Moon”.

In 2014 she was in the movie Half of a Yellow Sun with Chiwetel Ejiofor and Thandiwe Newton, and Lion Heart (2018).

  • Politics

Onwenu was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. She contested twice to become the Local Council Chairman of her Local Government, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, and lost at both attempts but was appointed Chairperson of Imo State Council for Arts and Culture by former governor Ikedi Ohakim. On September 16, 2013, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan appointed her the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development.

  • Activism

In 2000, Onwenu protested against her former employer NTA over their refusal to pay royalties on her songs (NTA 2 Channel 5 had used “Iyogogo”, a track from the Onyeka! album, in station idents without asking her permission). After then-director general Ben Murray-Bruce blacklisted her from transmission, she embarked on a hunger strike outside the station’s premises.

Onwenu’s activism attracted widespread support from various artists, including Charly Boy, who lambasted Nigeria’s reluctance to pay royalties when songs are broadcast on television and radio. NTA resolved to settle the issue amicably but denied barring Onwenu from appearing on their channels.

The protest was called off after six days when Onwenu and NTA came to an arrangement regarding royalties.

 

See pictures from Onyeka Onwenu’s last performance below

BIG STORY

Federal Government Targets 8,000MW In 18 Months With Efficient Power Grid

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The Federal Government has expressed confidence that improved oversight of the national power grid by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) could boost electricity output to 8,000 megawatts within the next 12 to 18 months.

Speaking at a leadership retreat for NISO’s top management in Abuja, Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Ayodeji Gbeleyi, said the nation’s installed capacity is above 14,000MW, but actual generation remains around 5,500MW.

Gbeleyi noted that with enhanced grid management and greater investment in transmission and distribution systems, the sector is positioned to see major improvements soon.

“As an independent entity, NISO now carries the weighty responsibility of managing the national grid with impartiality and integrity. In doing so, it must guarantee non-discriminatory access, efficient dispatch coordination, and fair market settlement, free from undue influence or conflict of interest,” he said.

He added, “From where we stand today, we have about 5,500MW of power being wheeled on a day-to-day basis. Compare that with the fact that the total nameplate capacity for generation in the country is a bit above 14,000MW. So it’s not a tall order for us to believe that in the near term, 12 to 18 months, we can increase that 5,500 by a minimum of 50%, because the generation capacity is there. If this grid capacity can be scaled up and we build in resilience, chances are that with distribution infrastructure also being scaled up.”

He also revealed that the Federal Government has secured $500 million from the World Bank to finance distribution network upgrades. This includes providing 3.2 million meters nationwide, alongside another 2 to 3 million meters under a presidential initiative.

Chairman of the NISO Board, Adesegun Akin-Olugbade, stressed the importance of independence and coordination in delivering reliable power services.

“NISO is not just a new institution. It is a new idea. A system operator that is truly independent. A market coordinator that is truly neutral. A planning authority that is truly strategic. We are responsible for real-time grid operations, long-term system planning, and the coordination and development of the electricity market. These are not side functions, they are central pillars. Because when power fails, everything else, industry, healthcare, education, even security struggles,” he said.

Managing Director/CEO of NISO, Engr. Abdu Bello, stated that the goal is realistic, provided focus is maintained and private investment is attracted.

“It is a target that can be achieved. We have to put ourselves and our house in order by making sure that we are focused and making sure that we also attract investment from the private sector. I believe if we are able to do that, given this retreat, this retreat is part of the plan to keep us focused. We will have a direction, strategic plan, and actions going forward. So it’s achievable,” he said.

Executive Director of Portfolio Management at the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, Tajudeen Ahmed, affirmed that MOFI will fully support NISO in delivering on its mandate.

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BIG STORY

Keyamo Faults Atiku’s Use Of Coat Of Arms In PDP Resignation Letter, Says “You Left Office 18 Years Ago”

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Festus Keyamo, the minister of aviation and aerospace development, has criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for using a coat of arms letterhead to announce his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He also expressed disapproval over Abubakar making the resignation letter public during the period of national mourning for the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

Buhari passed away on Sunday at a clinic in London, United Kingdom, and was laid to rest on Tuesday in Daura, Katsina state.

President Bola Tinubu had declared a seven-day period of national mourning in Buhari’s honour.

Despite this, Abubakar’s resignation letter from the PDP, dated July 14, was shared online on Wednesday.

Responding to the letter shared by Paul Ibe, Abubakar’s media adviser, on X, Keyamo said the former vice-president’s “perennial presidential ambition knows no sympathy or empathy”.

He wrote, “Your Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, whilst I acknowledge that it is within your constitutional right to change political Parties at any time you may wish, however, releasing your letter of resignation from the PDP during this week of the mourning of our immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, is clearly an attempt to draw the spotlight away from such a solemn occasion and direct it on yourself.”

“In fact (as the image below shows) you prepared, typed, signed and delivered that letter the morning after the passing away of the former President was announced.”

“With the greatest respect to you, this clearly demonstrates that your obsession with your perennial Presidential ambition knows no sympathy or empathy.”

Keyamo also pointed out that Abubakar’s use of the coat of arms letterhead, despite leaving office 18 years ago, is “illegal”.

He said, “And since we are on the issue of your letter, it is both morally and legally wrong to continue to use the Coat of Arms of the Federal Government in your private or political communications when you stopped being a functionary of the Federal Government more than 18 years ago.”

He cited Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act, Cap. F30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, as the basis for his claim.

The law states that “Any person who, otherwise than in conformity with the terms of a licence granted by the Minister or under other lawful authority, uses or displays- (a) in connection with the carrying on of any business, trade, profession or calling; or (b) in connection with the activities of any body of persons, whether corporate or unincorporate, the National Flag, the National Coat of Arms or the Coat of Arms of royalty as Head of the Commonwealth, or any flag or arms so closely resembling that flag or either of those coat of arms that they might reasonably be taken to be that flag or coat of arms, shall be guilty of an offence against this Act.”

Keyamo further argued that using the national symbol in this manner is also “reprehensible”, as it gives the impression that Abubakar is acting in an official capacity on behalf of the government.

He said, “It borders on impersonation. Imagine a situation where all former Government functionaries continue to use the Coat of Arms of Nigeria in their personal, political or private communications. There would certainly be confusion everywhere.”

As a lawyer and a member of the federal executive council (FEC), Keyamo said he is obligated to uphold the laws of the country.

 

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BIG STORY

Road To 2027:  Tensions In APC As Buhari’s CPC Bloc May Dump Party

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The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari has stirred renewed discussions about the future of his political loyalists, particularly those who belonged to the now-defunct Congress for Progressive Change, which he established in 2009.

Since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in 2023, the influence of Buhari’s CPC allies has diminished. Prominent figures like former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and ex-SGF Babachir Lawal have publicly criticized Tinubu’s potential reelection bid.

Analysts suggest that Buhari’s death could present new challenges for the APC, especially given his significant support base, long estimated to exceed 12 million people.

Signs of friction are emerging between the APC and the African Democratic Congress, as both parties attempt to court Buhari’s base. This shift comes after comments by former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who remarked that Buhari’s death might redefine Nigeria’s political future.

“That shows the magnitude of what has befallen Nigeria,” Abdulsalami stated. “With the passing away of Buhari, politics in Nigeria will certainly change — I hope for the better.”

The ADC’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, claimed during a PUNCH interview that many of Buhari’s key allies had already aligned with their coalition.

“Most of the Buhari loyalists are already with us,” Abdullahi said. “The majority of them, the entire North is already with our party. We are very confident. The passing of the former President will only cement that for us because that was his wish when he was alive — that his members should join the coalition.”

He added, “As you can see, there is a strong representation of CPC and Buhari loyalists in the senior ranks of the coalition — the likes of Babachir Lawal, Abubakar Malami, Isah Pantami, Emeka Nwajuba, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola and the rest of them. Those are Buhari people. And their presence in the leadership of the coalition indicates that that’s where Buhari stood.”

Abdullahi also emphasized that the coalition is determined to uphold Buhari’s legacy, arguing that the APC had sidelined and criticized the late President during his life.

“Why would they remain part of the APC?” he asked. “Is it because they enjoy the humiliation and the exclusion they have suffered? Or is it because they’ve watched the government demonise the legacy of Buhari while he was alive?”

He also blamed the Tinubu administration for attributing Nigeria’s economic problems to Buhari. “President Tinubu’s government has blamed Buhari for almost every economic woe. So, why would Buhari followers or loyalists remain with the APC?”

Some CPC figures still in the APC include former Nasarawa Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura; Babale Ila; Ibrahim Gobir; Senator Ibrahim Musa; Sanusi Aliyu; Mohammed Tukur; Senator Ahmed Sani; Ibrahim Chachangi; Yusuf Bala; and the party’s current North West National Vice Chairman, Garuba Datti.

Others include Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda; Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission Chairman, M.B. Shehu; NDLEA Chairman, retired General Buba Marwa; former House of Representatives Speaker, Aminu Bello Masari; Adamu Farouk; Okoi Obono-Obla; former DG of the Voice of Nigeria, Osita Okechukwu; Senator Ibrahim Musa; and Nasiru Argungu.

Also still in the APC are former Katsina Governor Aminu Masari; Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule; Adamu Adamu; Senator Mustafa Salihu; Almajiri Geidam; Waziri Bulama; Dr. Nasiru Argungu; Dr. Dominic Alancha; Ayuba Balami; Lucy Ajayi; Captain Bala Jibrin; Uche Ufearoh; Yusuf Salih; and Alkali Ajikolo, among others.

However, sources within the party told The PUNCH that although many of these individuals are presently supporting the APC in the lead-up to 2027, not all are expected to remain. Some disgruntled members, particularly those who feel marginalized since Buhari left office, may eventually exit.

Another member of the ADC coalition, former APC North-West Vice Chairman Salihu Lukman, said Buhari’s death signals the close of a political era where his endorsement could secure electoral wins.

During an appearance on Arise TV, Lukman noted, “What we must learn, most especially in the coalition, is that we don’t have somebody with the kind of intimidating profile like that of the late Buhari. Our leaders must have a kind of team spirit.”

He stressed that the goal isn’t only to defeat the APC or Tinubu, but to build a new political system that meets the people’s expectations.

“I know that many politicians look forward to him raising their hands and endorsing them. That translates almost into victory in many places in the North. Now we don’t have any figure like that. Politicians must relate to citizens with higher humility rather than the current arrogance,” he added.

APC pushes back

In reaction to the growing rumors of defections, APC Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim insisted that Buhari’s supporters remain ideologically committed to the APC.

“No, they will not support ADC, it’s not possible. They are people of different ideologies. They are more comfortable with and in APC,” he said.

While acknowledging that Buhari’s death leaves a void, Ibrahim believes it will spur the party to reflect and improve.

“Yes, political atmosphere will change for our party. But it is not a vacuum that will deform the party. It is a vacuum that will push the party into sobriety… The party is doing something to reconcile, reassess the situation, and see to it that there is a very good sense of mending,” he added.

Shittu dismisses claim

Former Communications Minister Adebayo Shittu, another CPC stalwart, denied claims that he’s leaving the APC for the ADC.

“No way, I am not leaving the APC. In fact, I am even planning to run for Oyo governorship seat on the platform of the party in 2027. And I have no doubt I will defeat any opponent to clinch it if I am given the APC ticket,” he stated.

On the broader impact of Buhari’s death, Shittu said, “No, the exit of Buhari can’t break up or divide the APC. Although you can’t rule out the fact that some elements of CPC may go… there are more people moving into the APC.”

Arewa leaders react

Reactions from northern political figures remain mixed.

Anthony Sani, former Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum, believes the APC will remain on course.

“I do not think there will be any substantial change in direction by the APC after the death of former President Buhari. He said he would remain in the APC, which had made him President twice,” Sani said. “Given the attitude of his supporters, I do not see how they will betray Buhari, even in his grave.”

He also questioned the strength of the coalition, citing a lack of distinct policies and zoning disadvantages.

“The politics of zoning does not favour the coalition. President Tinubu is about the only one who has only one term to go, and northerners cannot trust Peter Obi, they cannot support Atiku Abubakar to dismantle the zoning,” he added.

On the other hand, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum President, Yerima Shettima, warned that Buhari’s death might result in a leadership vacuum within the APC.

“Buhari’s leadership was characterised by a blend of loyalty and divisiveness. His death could trigger a power vacuum. The APC would face a critical juncture in its trajectory,” Shettima stated.

He added that how the APC manages Buhari’s legacy would determine the party’s future.

“If the party fails to address the grievances of the populace, it risks losing credibility and support,” he warned.

Shettima said the CPC bloc could either rise as the custodian of Buhari’s values or transition into an entirely new political entity, depending on how it responds to ongoing internal shifts.

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