Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress, Ms. Onyeka Onwenu, has passed away. According to reports, the iconic singer died Tuesday night after performing at an event at Banana Island, Lagos. She was 72 years old.

Onwenu was said to have collapsed after performing at the birthday ceremony of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals. She was later confirmed dead at a hospital in Victoria Island, The Guardian Newspaper reported. Her family has yet to confirm her death.

Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, Onyeka Onwenu began her music career in the 1980s, releasing her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. Over the years, she released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “One Love.”

Onwenu also had a successful acting career in Nollywood, featuring in several films and winning numerous awards for her contributions to music and film. She was widely recognized as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.

In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu was also involved in politics. She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.

Onwenu’s contributions to Nigerian society were widely acknowledged, including being awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. She was also recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organizations.

Her death marks the end of an era for Nigerian music and entertainment, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.