King Sunny Ade Reveals Reason for Silence on Rumored Relationship with Onyeka Onwenu

Nigerian music icon, King Sunny Ade (KSA), recently shed light on why he neither confirmed nor denied the longstanding rumors of an affair with the late legendary singer Onyeka Onwenu. Speaking during a condolence visit to the Onwenu family, KSA paid tribute to the late singer while reflecting on their professional relationship and the rumors that surrounded them.

Addressing the speculation, KSA revealed that the rumors of their relationship were a deliberate strategy to promote their music, particularly their collaborative hit “Wait for Me.” He explained, “That was a gimmick we did. It was for the music. We wanted to launch ‘Wait for Me.’ Before, people used to think she was my girlfriend. Me and her have never said yes or no.”

King Sunny Ade went on to describe Onyeka Onwenu as an extraordinary individual who offered him invaluable advice and support throughout their collaboration. “She’s someone who will sit down with you. She used to say, ‘Can I chip in for some advice?’ And the advice was always excellent,” he recalled fondly.

Reflecting on their partnership, particularly in the creation of “Wait for Me,” KSA noted that Onwenu often took the lead in their projects. “When it comes to music that the two people have to do together, she used to do more. She would just tell me, ‘Sunny, let’s take it this way.’ And it’s always good,” he said.

KSA also expressed his intention to continue performing the song in her honor, always crediting Onwenu as the true owner. “I will, on her behalf, sing it throughout my life with any artiste that you want me to. I’ve done it several times in different countries. I mentioned her name. I said she’s the owner of the song,” he affirmed.

In addition, KSA shared the values he learned from Onwenu, highlighting her dedication to their craft and her vision for their work to reach a global audience. “She’s the first person to say this thing, we must do it. Sunny, let’s do it. This is what we want to do. It’s not only for us. It’s not only for our nation, but for the whole world,” he stated.

Onyeka Onwenu, a celebrated singer and actress, passed away on July 30, leaving a significant void in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Her legacy, however, continues to live on through her timeless music and the impact she made on those who knew and worked with her.