In the early 90s, tuning into NTA 2 Channel 5 often meant being
greeted by Onyeka Onwenu‘s “Iyogogo” bellowing
out from your TV screen. With its blend of softness
and raw emotion, the song envelops you in its gentle melody, reminding you that
while love is beautiful, it comes with its ups and downs. When the chorus,
“Iyogogo iyogogo,” comes on, you’ll likely find yourself dancing along, just
like Onyeka did in the music video.
If you understand the Igbo
lyrics, you might find yourself curious about what was happening at the
bishop’s house that required her presence by 5. K’anyi je na nke Bishopu na 5
akuolaElegant, graceful, and steadfast, there are many words to
describe Onyeka Onwenu, but “icon” and “legend” stand out. Her talents spanned
music, film, and literature; and she expressed them all with remarkable
elegance and skill.
Onyeka may have passed on, but her
legacy lives on through her music, her memorable film roles, her activism for a
better Nigeria, and her memoir that detailed her life’s journey.
In celebrating her well-lived life, here’s a rundown of what
Onyeka Onwenu is remembered for:
Her prominent films:
“Half Of A Yellow Sun”
(2013): In
this adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi
Adichie’s novel, Onyeka Onwenu played the role of Odenigbo’s (Chiwetel
Ejiofor) strong-willed mother, alongside a star-studded cast including Chiwetel
Ejiofor, John Gboyega, Thandie Newton, Anika Noni Rose and Genevieve Nnaji“Lionheart”
(2018): Directed by Genevieve Nnaji,
Onyeka portrayed Abigail Obiagu,
the supportive mother of Adaeze and Obiora, and wife of Chief Ernest Obiagu. In
a memorable scene, she encourages her daughter Adaeze, who is struggling with
her role in the family business, saying, “Don’t slouch, sit up, be strong, it
is not over until it is over. God never gives you a burden He has not equipped
you to carry. Do away with the sentiments and emotions, get the job done; you
have it in you, dig deep.”
“God Calling“ (2018):
In this religious drama, Onyeka played Mama Francis, the mother of Karibi Fubara’s character.
The film also stars Zainab Balogun and Richard Mofe–Damijo.
The writer and director, BB Sasore, described her Onyeka
as the most pleasant woman ever. “A true ‘mother hen’, she gave the entire crew
gifts on her last day.
“Obara ‘M (My Blood)” (2023): Onyeka portrayed Nwakaego in this musical drama, which follows the journey of a rising music star, Oluchi.
Other famous films featuring Onyeka include “Iwe
Ajele, “Widow’s Cot,” “Rising
Moon,” “Every Single Day,”
“The
Trinity,” “Government House”
and more.
Her
first film role was in Zik Zulu Okafor’s “Nightmare,” where she played Joke, a
childless woman who adopts an abandoned baby. In 2006, Onyeka won the Africa
Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance
in “Widow’s Cot” and was also nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role for
“Rising Moon” the same year.
Her
greatest hits:
“Wait For Me“ featuring King Sunny Ade (1989): This song is
one of three collaborations between Onyeka Onwenu and King Sunny Ade. It
carries a powerful message advocating for responsible family planning and safe
sex. The Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria endorsed the song in their
public service announcements.
“One Love” (1991): Perhaps Onyeka’s most iconic song, “One Love” is a heartfelt plea for unity and peace in a world often divided by conflict and strife. Its timeless message resonates deeply with listeners.
Her other hit songs include “Bia Nulu,”
“Alleluya,”
“Dancing
In The Sun” and others. Besides King Sunny Ade, she also
collaborated with artists like Funke Akinokun, Segun Obe, Pat King, Sammie
Okposo on the song “Love Is All What We Need.”
“My Father’s Daughter”
In October 2020, Onyeka Onwenu released her memoir, “My Father’s Daughter.” This riveting autobiography
offers an intimate look into her life as a musician, activist, wife, mother,
and politician. The book chronicles her experiences, from the deep affection of
her father and the turmoil of the Nigeria-Biafra war to her career and advocacy
work. It paints a vivid picture of her journey, touching on themes like
feminism and family dynamics, and showcases the many facets of her remarkable
life.
Rest in peace, Onyeka Onwenu.
