General News of Tuesday, 3 September 2024

'Great mothers' - Social media users remember Dora Akunyili, Onyeka Onwenu

A photo of the former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dora Akunyili, and music icon and veteran actress Onyeka Onwenu has emerged online.

The duo have been regarded by Nigerians as steadfast women who are always dedicated to their cause.

Akunyili, who is popularly called the "iron woman," died in 2014. Her death was confirmed painfully by her family in a statement. The family disclosed that she died in India at 59 years old.

A statement signed by then-former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, on behalf of the family, said she died at 10 a.m. Nigerian time in a Specialist Cancer Hospital following a two-year battle with the disease.

“Despite her illness, Prof. Akunyili was unwavering in her belief in a better Nigeria,” Obi said. “That was why she defied her condition and was part of the Anambra State Handover Committee and the National Conference.”

Onyeka Onwenu, on the other hand, passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 72.

Sources who spoke to the press after her demise said Onwenu collapsed after performing at the birthday party of Mrs. Stella Okoli, the Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.

Onwenu was rushed to Reddington Hospital in Lagos, where efforts were made to revive her. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead shortly after her arrival.

The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry and beyond, as Onwenu was not only a celebrated singer but also a respected actress, journalist, and politician.

Their photos have generated some reactions since they were shared.

See some reactions below

Always respect and love Dora Akunyili

Two legends
— Bàádì of Agègè (@iamaleshinloye1) September 2, 2024

There are heroes and then there are legends, heroes get remembered but legends never die.

MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE.
— Âbdùllahì (@abdullahiajao1) September 2, 2024