5 top movies of the legendary Onyeka Onwenu

The 30th of July 2024 was a sombre day for the Nigerian entertainment industry and the nation as it mourned the loss of veteran broadcaster, legendary musician, and queen of the screens, the Elegant Stallion herself, Onyeka Onwenu. Many millennial Nigerians grew up to the amazing voice of Onyeka on their parents' record players and TV screens, with songs like "Iyogogo," "One Love," and "You and I" being stable parts of their childhood memories. But most recently, the amazing broadcaster and journalist has been known more for her presence in blockbuster movies gracing the cinemas and streaming platforms in recent years. If there is one thing Onyeka Onwenu's characters will always stand out for in any movie, it's the class and grace with which she plays each role to perfection.

To celebrate the life and times of this amazing woman who will always be a big part of the Nigerian story as a journalist, advocate, and entertainer, here are 5 of her most memorable movie performances.

1. Nightmare: In this 1999 movie produced by Chico Ejiro, Onyeka Onwenu played the role of Joke, the wife of veteran actor Pete Edochie's character, who was at loggerheads with his sister. This movie marked Onyeka's entry into the world of movies, a career that continued into the present day.

2. Half of a Yellow Sun: In the epic cinematic representation of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's novel of the same name, a production that brought Hollywood and Nollywood together, Miss Onwenu plays the brave mother of the lead male character, Odenigbo, who refused to leave her home even in the wake of impending danger and destruction. In this role, her charisma and strength exemplified the strength of so many Igbo people who stood their ground against the onslaught of the Nigerian army during the Civil War that left so many wounds in the nation.

3. Lionheart: Nigeria's first indigenous submission on the Netflix platform, Lionheart was a warm, family drama that showcased a young woman's resilience in saving her family's business and ensuring the legacy continues while proving to her father that she was worthy of his respect. Onyeka Onwenu played the role of the family matriarch who helped her daughter navigate her feelings of anger and betrayal when she thought she didn't have her father's trust. Her remarkable acting and charisma added quite a bit of charm to the movie, exuding maternal warmth and wisdom.

4. God Calling: The award-winning Christian movie about God's grace and love even in the face of tragedy and unbelief features Onyeka Onwenu as the peacemaking mother-in-law of the female lead and protagonist. She exemplified forgiveness and care even when she was wronged and was always the first to show up and make peace between the two stubborn fathers.

5. Ije Awele: In this 2022 drama, Onyeka Onwenu took on a challenging role as Ijeoma, the mother of a young woman who was sexually abused by her father. Ijeoma's complex character, torn between protecting her family's reputation and acknowledging her daughter's pain, was a departure from Onwenu's typically warm and nurturing roles. It was a testament to her versatility as an actress, willing to explore the darker side of human nature.

Onyeka Onwenu's Legacy

Onyeka Onwenu's contributions to Nigerian entertainment are immeasurable. Her talent, grace, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire generations to come. Her performances on screen, like her music, will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Nigerians. Outside these five movies, you can also see Onyeka in Conspiracy, Rising Moon, Muna, Women’s Cot, Obara’m among other movies. We celebrate her charisma and talent today and always, and remain in awe dedication that saw her performing till the last minute.