Onyeka Onwenu, the legendary Nigerian musician and actress, recently shared her personal struggles and the end of her marriage in a candid interview. At 72 years old, with an estimated net worth of $1.5 million, Onwenu has achieved remarkable success in her career. Yet, behind her public persona, she faced significant challenges, particularly in her personal life. Onwenu is a mother of two children, whom she has supported single-handedly from kindergarten through their master’s degrees. Her ex-husband, whom she described as kind but controlling, did not contribute financially to their upbringing, leaving her to shoulder the burden alone.
A Painful Decision
In her interview with media personality Kikelomo Atanda-Owo on “Real Talk with Kike,” Onwenu revealed the emotional toll her marriage took on her. She expressed that, despite her efforts to maintain the marriage, the situation became unbearable. “It could have killed me,” she said, highlighting the severe impact on her mental health. Onwenu emphasized the negative environment created for her children, stating that it was unhealthy for them to witness their mother constantly overburdened and depressed.
Financial Struggles
Onwenu detailed the financial difficulties she faced during her marriage. Despite her ex-husband’s occasional generosity, he did not contribute to essential expenses such as school fees, clothing, holidays, or household costs. “My husband did not pay school fees for one day,” she noted, underscoring the lack of financial support. This situation forced Onwenu to take full responsibility for her family’s financial well-being, a burden she found challenging to bear.
Control and Manipulation
Onwenu described a dynamic of control and manipulation in her marriage, where her ex-husband would withhold financial support if things were not done his way. She characterized this behavior as mean and irresponsible, particularly because it negatively impacted their children. Her candid account resonated with a broader audience, as she called on men to fulfill their responsibilities to their families, highlighting that neglecting one’s children and spouse is not only unfair but also morally wrong.
A Call for Action
Onwenu’s decision to speak publicly about her experiences was motivated by a desire to inspire other women in similar situations. She pointed out that many women remain silent about their struggles, enduring significant pain in the process. By sharing her story, Onwenu aimed to encourage others to speak out and seek change, rather than silently suffering. Her narrative emphasizes the importance of addressing issues of domestic responsibility and financial support in marriages.
Prioritizing Her Children
Despite the challenges she faced, Onwenu remained focused on providing the best possible upbringing for her children. Her dedication ensured that they received a quality education, which she financed entirely on her own. This commitment to her children’s welfare stands as a testament to her strength and resilience. It also highlights the broader issue of the financial and emotional toll that single parents often face when left to handle responsibilities alone.
A Call for Accountability
Onwenu’s narrative is not just a personal story but also a call for accountability. She stressed that men who fail to take care of their families will have to answer to a higher power, underscoring the ethical responsibilities that come with parenthood. Her experience serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of neglect and control in familial relationships.
Inspiring Change
As Onwenu continues to share her story, she hopes to inspire others to take action in their own lives. Her experiences highlight the need for societal change in how issues of marital responsibility and financial support are addressed. Onwenu’s resilience and advocacy for women’s rights continue to make her a powerful voice in Nigeria and beyond. Her journey, marked by both pain and perseverance, offers valuable lessons on the importance of standing up for oneself and one’s children in the face of adversity.
Onyeka Onwenu’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience required to overcome personal struggles. Her candid revelations about her marriage and her call for accountability resonate with many, offering inspiration and hope to those facing similar challenges. As she continues to advocate for women’s rights and share her experiences, Onwenu remains a significant figure in the ongoing dialogue about gender, family, and social justice.