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By Oscar Okhifo
Tijani Owenu, son of the late legendary singer and activist, Onyeka Onwenu, has marked the first anniversary of his mother’s passing with a touching tribute that stirred deep emotions across social media.
In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Tuesday, Tijani simply wrote: “A year ago, today. RIP Mom. July 30, 2024.”
The brief but poignant message has since drawn an outpouring of love and sympathy from fans, celebrities, and colleagues of the late cultural icon.
Onyeka Onwenu, fondly known as the “Elegant Stallion,” died on July 30, 2024, shortly after performing at the 80th birthday celebration of pharmaceutical magnate Stella Okoli in Lagos. She was rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she was confirmed dead at the age of 72.
Her burial took place exactly a month later on August 30, 2024, in a modest, private ceremony held at the Ebony Vaults and Gardens, Ikoyi, Lagos, preceded by a funeral service at the Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju.
The burial arrangement was in line with her earlier wishes for a quiet and simple farewell.
A year on, many still recall the massive tributes that poured in following her death. From political figures like Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, to fellow entertainers including Omawumi and Regina Askia, Nigerians across all walks of life mourned her loss and celebrated her contributions to music, film, and public service.
Onwenu was best known for timeless hits like “One Love”, “You and I (We Are One)”, and “Ekwe”, as well as her iconic roles in movies such as “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Lionheart”. Beyond entertainment, she was an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and served as a director at the National Centre for Women Development.
Onwenu, although gone to whence cometh all comers, will forever live in the hearts of many. Her sonorous voice, superlative dance steps, morality and culture oriented songs exquisite fashion taste, activism, and artistic legacy will continue to inspire a multitude. Her legacy would sure endure through generations.
Her works remain not just in archives or memories, but alive in the lives she touched while alive. This is a buttress to the statement that one can be dead and yet lives. The Elegant Stallion, even in death still lives .