Nigerian singer, Niniola, has revealed that she still struggles with the trauma of witnessing her father, Brigadier-General Simeon Apata (rtd.), being assassinated nearly three decades ago. Speaking in a recent interview with Jay On Air, the music star said the painful memory is one she can never overcome.
Gen. Apata, a retired army officer, was murdered by gunmen on January 8, 1995, in Lagos, right in front of his family. Niniola recalled that she was inside the house during the attack and, as her father’s favourite child, the experience left a deep emotional scar. She admitted that the incident remains a haunting memory she cannot put behind her.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Niniola said she was very young when it happened and cannot even remember her exact age at the time. However, the incident continues to live with her as one of the most painful moments of her life. She stressed that no matter how much time passes, the trauma is something she will always carry with her.
Her sister, Teni, who is also a popular singer, has in the past spoken about the same tragedy. In 2023, Teni disclosed that witnessing their father’s assassination at just two years old left her traumatised. The two sisters continue to express how the loss shaped their lives and careers, highlighting the lasting impact of that dark moment in their family’s history.
