The Passing of Onyeka Onwenu and Her Wishes for Burial

Onyeka Onwenu, a veteran singer, is allegedly deceased.

Known for her talent and activism, the legendary singer, actress, journalist, author, and politician passed away on Tuesday night, July 30, at the Reddington Hospital in Lagos. It was reported that she collapsed after performing at Mrs. Stella Okoli's birthday party, the managing director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.

After her passing, there has been a resurgence of attention in an opinion post she wrote for Premium Times in 2021 about how she wants to be buried.

Onyeka clarified in the article: "Do it quickly, quietly, and privately," she wrote.

"Mourn, yes, but not excessively," she asked her loved ones, emphasizing that they should instead concentrate on praying and having fun as they celebrate her life.

"Celebrate me with prayers, lunch, or dinner afterward. Share some jokes about me and laugh. Make merriment and then go about your business. If my friends want to celebrate me, they should do so while I am alive, so that I can enjoy it with them, not when I am gone and have no idea about this. That is me Onyeka Onwenu."

She continued by denouncing the conspicuous show of riches that is customary at Nigerian funerals.  "I am very uncomfortable with the lavish display of wealth on any occasion, especially in a time of hardship and lack for most others."