Onyeka Onwenu, unarguably one of Nigeria’s most talented creators was born on the 31st January 1952. She was a singer, songwriter, actress, human rights activist, social activist, journalist, politician, and former X Factor Series Judge.

Onyeka was a former Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and in the year 2013 was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development in Nigeria.

Onyeka worked as a TV presenter, hosting the programmes “Contact” (1988) and “Who’s On” (1993) both on NTA Network. In 2006, she won an award as Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the African Movie Academy Awards. Some of her acting credits include: “Nightmare”, “Widow’s Cot”, “Rising Moon”, “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Lion Heart”.

Onyeka produced many great songs among them the popular “Dancing In The Sun”, “Choices” and “Wait for Me” which centred on family planning and was done in collaboration with veteran artist King Sunny Ade.

Her songs and writings reflected on issues such as health (HIV/AIDS), peace and mutual coexistence, respect for women rights, and the plight of children.

Onyeka Onwenu died on Tuesday 30th July 2024 after performing at a birthday party in Lagos. She was 72 years old.

The Management and Staff of the Nigerian Copyright Commission(NCC) deeply mourn this great creator and copyright legend and wish to express their condolences to her family and fans across the world. May her gentle soul rest in peace.