Queen of Waka music, Salawa Abeni, has recounted how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu came to her aid during a difficult period when she was battling serious health challenges and financial hardship.
The veteran singer shared the emotional experience at her recently concluded 50 years on stage celebration, where she also praised Tinubu for his support for Nigeria’s entertainment industry long before he became president.
Speaking at the star-studded event, Abeni recalled the devastating loss of her child, saying the experience left her emotionally traumatised and worsened her health and financial situation.
According to the singer, her condition deteriorated to the point where she could barely walk without the aid of a walking stick.
With no one else to turn to, she said she sought help from Tinubu, who was then a prominent political figure in Lagos.
Abeni recalled visiting Tinubu’s residence at 26 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, where she was asked to wait for him.
She said when Tinubu eventually came out, he initially struggled to recognise her because of the significant changes in her appearance caused by her health condition.
The singer said Tinubu, after seeing her condition, immediately contacted the then Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, and requested that a flight be arranged to take her to Dubai the following week for medical attention.
Abeni expressed gratitude for the intervention, describing it as a major support at a time when she was struggling with her health and finances.
The veteran musician also acknowledged the support she had received from popular transport union leader, MC Oluomo, over the years.
Recounting her experiences while living in Magodo, Lagos, Abeni said MC Oluomo often responded whenever she contacted him for assistance during periods when she had no shows and was experiencing financial difficulties.
During her performance at the celebration, she showered praises on him, acknowledging his presence and continued support over the years.
Abeni’s account adds to previous testimonies from Nigerian entertainers who have publicly acknowledged Tinubu’s financial assistance during difficult periods.
Veteran Nollywood actor, Yinka Quadri, had previously recalled how Tinubu donated $25,000 to help bring home the remains of actress Moji Olaiya after members of the entertainment industry had raised $15,000 for the arrangements.
