Following the passing of the music legend Onyeka Onwenu, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, shared his profound grief in a statement stating that he was with the late singer before she died. 

Mr Obi posted a statement on X describing the experience as his “most traumatic moment,” and recounted the tragic sequence of events that led to Onwenu’s death.

“Yesterday provided a very devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory,” Mr Obi began. 

He recounted being at the event where Onwenu gave a memorable performance, singing several songs and concluding with her famous piece, “One Love Keep Us Together.” 

He described the performance as beautiful and captivating, unaware that it would be her “final bow.”

Mr Obi detailed how Onwenu, after delivering a stunning performance, took a seat and drank some water, only to collapse moments later. 

The singer was immediately rushed to the hospital, with Mr Obi closely following.

“I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life, doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone,” Mr Obi said, describing the intense and ultimately futile efforts to revive Onwenu. 

“Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.”

The former governor of Anambra state expressed his deepest condolences to Onwenu’s family, friends, and fans, acknowledging the immense impact she had on Nigerian culture and the arts. 

Reflecting on Onwenu’s legacy, Mr Obi called her a “national treasure” and a “shining star” whose music, activism, and dedication to the arts had inspired generations.

 “Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire nation, and she will be deeply missed,” he said.

“Your soulful melodies will forever echo in our hearts. Your legacy of elegance, resilience, and activism will continue to inspire generations. Your impact will never fade. Rest in eternal peace, Mrs. Onyeka Onwenu. Until we meet again, may your harmonies serenade the heavens.”

Mr Obi also expressed gratitude to those who supported Onwenu in her final moments.

“Special thanks to Mr and Mrs John Momoh, Mr and Mrs Okonkwo, and Mr Okpara, who were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined us also and Mr Femi Ajayi.”