Renowned Nigerian singer and actress, Onyeka Onwenu, recently revealed a fascinating anecdote about her relationship with the late Afrobeats legend, Fela Kuti. During an engaging interview on media entrepreneur Kadaria Ahmed’s podcast, “Quarter to 12,” Onwenu disclosed that Fela had once expressed romantic feelings towards her.
Recalling a significant incident from the past, Onwenu recounted how she fearlessly criticized the military when Fela was arrested for attempting to take money out of the country—a prohibited act at the time. Fela’s bold move to defy the regulations and the subsequent arrest became a turning point in their relationship.
It was during this tumultuous period that Fela decided to approach Onwenu with the idea of marriage. However, she declined his proposal, opting to stand her ground and maintain her principles.
Sharing further insights into the situation, Onwenu revealed that Fela was well aware that she would turn down his advances. In fact, she discovered that Fela had made a bet with someone, predicting her refusal. Despite knowing the probable outcome, Fela invited her to his house to express his intentions, displaying a mix of audacity and vulnerability.