Onyeka Onwenu: Nigerians Yet to See Her Last Nollywood Film

Nigerian music and film icon Onyeka Onwenu, according to a source close to the production, may have completed her final cinematic project before taking her last breath on July 30, 2024.

The source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization, revealed that Onwenu wrapped up filming on an undisclosed project in Abuja two months ago. The production reportedly blends veteran actors with emerging talent, potentially marking the end of Onwenu’s illustrious on-screen career.

Known as the “Elegant Stallion,” Onwenu’s career in entertainment spanned over four decades. While details of this latest project remain scarce, it could serve as a fitting finale to her multifaceted artistic journey.

Throughout her lifetime, Onwenu graced the silver screen with numerous memorable performances. Her filmography, though not as extensive as her musical catalog, showcased her versatility and depth as an actor.

One of her recent appearances was in the 2022 film “Obara’M,” directed by Kayode Kasum. The movie, whose title means “My Blood” in Igbo, tells the story of a musician forced to confront her past.

In 2019, Onwenu featured in “Muna,” directed by Kevin Nwankwor. This intense drama follows a young girl’s journey from innocence to revenge after falling victim to human traffickers. Onwenu’s supporting role added gravitas to the production, with reviewers highlighting her commanding screen presence.

Perhaps one of her most widely recognized film roles came in Genevieve Nnaji’s 2018 directorial debut, “Lionheart.” This comedy-drama, which became Nigeria’s first-ever submission to the Oscars, featured Onwenu in a supporting role that was noted for its warmth and authenticity.

Going further back, Onwenu appeared in the critically acclaimed 2013 adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel “Half of a Yellow Sun,” directed by the late Biyi Bandele. Set against the backdrop of the Nigerian Civil War, the film showcased Onwenu’s ability to hold her own alongside international stars.

While some regard her as the Tiwa Savage of the 80s and 90s, others say she is much more. From “refusing” to marry the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti to her fearlessness as a journalist, Onyeka Onwenu embodied the strength and sagacity of the Nigerian woman.

Onwenu’s career was notably marked by both artistic achievement and principled activism. In 2000, she took a stand against her former employer, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), over their refusal to pay royalties for her songs. After then-director general Ben Murray-Bruce allegedly blacklisted her from transmission, Onwenu embarked on a hunger strike outside the station’s offices.

Her protest garnered widespread support from fellow artists, including Charly Boy, who criticized Nigeria’s reluctance to pay royalties for songs broadcast on television and radio. While NTA ultimately agreed to settle the issue amicably, they denied having barred Onwenu from their channels.

As the entertainment industry awaits more details about what Onwenu’s final film could be, her lasting influence on Nigerian cinema and culture remains undeniable.