Ogbako Ndigbo UK has issued a heartfelt tribute to Lady Onyeka Onwenu, the renowned Nigerian musician, human rights advocate, and actress, who passed away on July 30, 2024.
In a statement released by Dr. Jude Eze, President; Dr. Daisy Nwaozuzu, Vice President; and Barrister Kenneth Udeoka, Secretary General of Ogbako Ndigbo UK, the organization described Onwenu as an “elegant stallion,” a moniker reflecting her unyielding commitment to social justice and her impactful presence in public life.
Onwenu, celebrated for her influential career and activism, was affectionately known as the “Elegant Stallion” for her resolute stance on social and political issues. The statement lauded her as a trailblazer in advocating for dialogue, peace, and reconciliation in Nigeria, as well as a champion for women’s rights.
Throughout her life, Onyeka Onwenu made significant contributions as a musician and actress, while also leading impactful social and political activism. Her efforts included a staunch opposition to policies perceived as discriminatory against the Igbo people, such as the controversial “Abandoned Property” policy, which she criticized for undermining Igbo property rights and identity.
Despite the challenges, Onwenu remained committed to the Nigerian project, famously stating, “If you don’t want us, let us go,” reflecting her passionate belief in the Igbo people’s right to thrive and be recognized. Her dedication to justice, independence, and dignity has made her a source of inspiration not only for the Igbo community but also for Nigerians and black women globally.
Ogbako Ndigbo UK extended its condolences to the Arondizuogu community in Imo State, the Imo State Government, the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Nollywood, and the Nigerian government. The organization honored Onyeka Onwenu’s memory as a remarkable daughter of Arochukwu, an outspoken queen, and a celebrated “Elegant Stallion.”
The passing of Onyeka Onwenu marks a significant loss for the music and activism communities, as well as for those who admired her tireless efforts for social justice and cultural pride.
The condolence message reads:
“CONDOLENCES TO THE “ELEGANT STALLION’” ONYEKA ONWNU.
“It is with great shock, shattering and devastating heart and deep sense of loss that ‘Ogbako Ndigbo UK’ mourns the death of Nigeria musical queen, human rights activist, social activist broadcaster, politician and actress -, Lady Onyeka Onwenu on Tuesday, 30 July 2024.
“Ogbako Ndigbo join all well-meaning Igbos, Nigerians and Black women all over the world to mourn and celebrate the exemplary cum extraordinary life of this Music maestro and icon. Onyeka was a great advocate of dialogue, peace, and reconciliation in Nigeria and was at the forefront of women’s rights.
“She is a hard and difficult ‘nut to crack’ (though humble and respectful), and her ‘Stubborn’ rocky stance on issues she believed in earned her the nick name – ‘Elegant Stallion’. A hard-core political activist with a great sense of pride. She is the pride of not only the Igbo’s but Nigeria, Africa and black women all over the world. Her sense of identity, intelligence, independence and dignity is worthy of emulation to all women.
“We can never forget your stance on the animosity and bitterness meted against the Igbos by Nigerians (on Igbo’s) especially the policy of injustice on ‘Abandoned Property’ created by Nigerian government to deny Ndi Igbo their property, heritage, identity and sense of belonging. Upon all these, you still believe in the Nigeria project. However, you stated unequivocally, thus: ‘If you don’t want us, let us go’ for the Igbo’s must have a way to survive.
“Ogbako Ndigbo UK commiserates with the whole Arondizuogu Communities in Imo State, the Imo State Government, Ndigbo, Performing Musician Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Nollywood and the Nigeria Government over the loss of an illustrious daughter, activist entertainment guru and star.
“Adieu a great Aroh Daughter! Son.
“Adieu our outspoken Queen!
“Adieu ‘Elegant Stallion’!!!”
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