Nigerian Singer Niniola Opens Up About Lingering Trauma from Father’s Assassination
In a heart-wrenching revelation, popular Nigerian singer Niniola has shared the enduring pain of witnessing her father’s assassination. Simeon Apata, a retired Nigerian Army Brigadier-General, was brutally murdered by gunmen in Lagos on January 8, 1995, in the presence of his family.
The traumatic experience has left Niniola with lasting emotional scars. In a recent interview with Jay On Air, the singer poignantly expressed the difficulty in overcoming the tragedy, especially as her late father’s favourite child. Niniola’s words convey a sense of irreparable loss and ongoing struggle, “I was in the house when my dad was murdered… Till today, I’m not over it. I can never get over it.”
Niniola’s recollection of the event, though hazy due to her young age at the time, is indelibly etched in her memory. “I was very young when it happened. I don’t remember my exact age then, but it wasn’t a good memory.” Her testimony highlights the profound impact of such traumatic experiences on individuals, especially children.
This is not the first time the Apata family has spoken out about the pain of that fateful day. Niniola’s sister, Teni, also a singer, revealed in 2023 that witnessing their father’s assassination at just two years old had left her traumatized. The sisters’ bravery in sharing their stories serves as a poignant reminder of the long-lasting effects of such violent acts.
Their experiences underscore the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional aftermath of traumatic events. By sharing their stories, Niniola and Teni hope to bring attention to the need for support and understanding for those who have faced similar ordeals.
The Apata family’s tragic loss is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring consequences of violence. As Niniola’s courageous testimony demonstrates, the path to healing is long and arduous, but sharing one’s story can be a crucial step towards recovery.
