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| The late Onyeka Onwenu |
Veteran Nigerian singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu, known for her powerful voice and activism, revealed her wishes for a simple and private burial in an opinion piece she wrote in 2021, shortly after her 70th birthday in January 2022
Onwenu emphasized that her burial should be devoid of unnecessary fanfare, urging her loved ones to "mourn, yes but not excessively," and instead focus on celebrating her life with prayers and light-hearted moments.
She expressed her discomfort with the lavish display of wealth often seen at Nigerian burials.
In her own words, Onwenu wrote, "Do it quickly, quietly and privately." She encouraged her friends to celebrate her while she was alive, so she could enjoy it with them, rather than when she was gone.
"I've told my family how I want to be buried. Do it quickly, quietly, and privately. Celebrate me with prayers, lunch or dinner afterward. Share some jokes about me and laugh. Mourn, but not excessively. Make merriment and then go about your business.
"If my friends want to celebrate me, they should do so while I'm alive, so I can enjoy it with them, not when I'm gone and have no idea," she said.
Tragically, Onyeka Onwenu passed away yesterday in Lagos at the age of 72, shortly after her performance at a birthday celebration.
The celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, human rights advocate, journalist, and politician was a multifaceted individual who made significant contributions to society.
Until her final moments, she remained devoted to her home state of Imo and was vocal about the increasing insecurity that threatened its reputation for peace and hospitality.
Onwenu's multifaceted career spanned music, film, advocacy, journalism, and politics, with notable songs like "One Love" and "You and I," and her autobiography "My Father's Daughter."
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