Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji has paid an emotional tribute to late singer, songwriter and actress Onyeka Onwenu.
Kemi Filani reported in the early hours of Wednesday morning that the icon collapsed after performing at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okolie in Lagos. She was rushed to Reddington Hospital in Lagos, where she reportedly passed away.
According to sources close to the family who spoke to media outlets, she attended a friend’s birthday party when she took to the stage to perform. Immediately after her performance, she returned to her seat and suddenly slumped. The source, who spoke under anonymity, said emergency services were quickly called, and she was rushed to the hospital on Victoria Island, where she was later pronounced dead.
Taking to her Instagram story, Genevieve noted how Onyeka’s voice resonated deeply with everyone. She stated that she is better at expressing herself through art, and her hit movie, Lion Heart, was born out of a desire to honour and give flowers to her and other legends that made her childhood beautiful and memorable whilst they were alive.
Genevieve expressed how grateful she was that Onyeka accorded her the opportunity, hhonourand privilege to share time and space with her as she noted how they created iconic moments that will forever be entrenched in her mind and photo memories.
She added that her tears wouldn’t stop falling because writing this tribute meant she couldn’t live in delusion for a few more hours, and it was not a bad dream she would be waking up from.
Expressing her condolence to the late icon’s family, she wrote,
“Today, we mourn the passing of an icon, a legend whose voice and presence have resonated deeply with us all – Onyeka Onwenu.
I’m better at expressing myself through my art. “Lion Heart was born out of a desire to honour and give flowers to the legends that made my childhood becomes memorable whilst they were still with us. I am so grateful she accorded me the opportunity, honour and privilege to share time and space with her. We created iconic moments that will forever be entrenched in my mind and photo memories.
My tears won’t stop falling because writing this tribute means I can’t live in delusion for a few more hours. That this is not a bad dream I will be waking up from.
My heart and deepest condolences to her family, loved ones and to her fans all over the world.
Rest in peace, Onyeka Onwenu.
Your legacy will never be forgotten.
With all my love and respect”.
Genevieve isn’t the only celebrity who has mourned her demise.
Taking the lead, singer Omawumi shared a candlelight photo with a heartbroken emoji.
Actress Regina Askia posted her picture on her Instagram page as she also expressed heartbreak over her demise.
Fuji singer Malaika prayed for her soul to rest in peace.
