Tijani Onwenu, son of Nigeria’s late music icon and actress Onyeka Onwenu, has remembered his mother one year after her passing.
On Tuesday, he posted a short message on social media that read, “A year ago, today. RIP mom. July 30, 2024.”
The tribute triggered a wave of fresh emotion among fans and friends, many of whom are still coming to terms with the death of the woman fondly called The Elegant Stallion.
Onyeka Onwenu died on July 30, 2024, shortly after performing at the birthday celebration of pharmaceutical magnate Stella Okoli. She was reportedly rushed to Reddington Hospital in Lagos, where doctors made efforts to revive her before she passed.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance,” the family said in a statement at the time. “Doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly, she passed.”
Her children described her as an “icon and legend” whose music, acting, and public service work inspired several generations.
“She is greatly loved and missed,” they said.
Onwenu’s musical legacy includes classics like In The Morning Light and Dancing In The Sun, alongside powerful acting roles in films such as Half of a Yellow Sun and Lionheart.
