Nigerian singer and songwriter Niniola Apata is mourning the loss of her husband, Michael Chiedu Ndika, as a heartbreaking video from his final burial ceremony emerged on social media. The ceremony took place on Friday, June 5, 2026, at a church in Lagos.
Emotional Procession Captured on Video
The video shows Niniola, joined by her sister and singer Teni, walking in a somber procession inside the church. Michael's casket led the way as mourners followed, their faces reflecting deep sorrow. The footage has evoked strong emotions online, with many offering their condolences to the grieving singer.
Niniola's Heartfelt Tribute
During a Service of Songs held prior to the burial, Niniola paid an emotional tribute to her late husband. Struggling to hold back tears, she described Michael as her backbone, biggest supporter, and life partner. Speaking before family, friends, and loved ones, she said: "He did everything for me. He was breathing for me. He loved me so much. I learnt so much from him." She highlighted a marriage built on friendship, support, and unwavering love.
Background on Michael Ndika's Death
In May 2026, Niniola announced her husband's death through a series of emotional posts on her Instagram story. Michael Ndika was the Chief Executive Officer of NaijaReview, a multimedia platform dedicated to afro-house and contemporary African music. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, as Niniola has always kept her private life away from public scrutiny.
Netizens React with Condolences
Social media users reacted to the burial video with messages of support. Many noted the visible weight loss and grief on Niniola's face. Some reactions include:
- legallysultry wrote: "She has lost so much weight from grieving."
- umuojime commented: "It's never easy, don't pray for any woman to experience this."
- ms_adunni reacted: "The hardest thing in life is saying goodbye to someone you love dearly."
- tomiluxuryfabrics offered: "My sincere condolences to you. May God comfort your hearts, give you strength during this difficult time, and grant the departed eternal rest."
- abasselizabeth wrote: "Please cry less, you have a long road to walk. God will wipe away your tears. Amen."
- anniebaby7371 commented: "So sad, man. May God comfort Niniola, his family, and friends."
- adabeautym said: "You see death of a loved one, the pain never goes away. Dear God, please give Nini the strength and grace to navigate this whole pain, and may the soul of the departed find rest with you."
Niniola's Grammy Achievement
In other news, Niniola previously shared photos of her Grammy certificate, revealing how she obtained them. The singer is a two-time Grammy-nominated recording artist and performer. One of her nominations came from composing the soundtrack to Beyoncé's album, The Lion King. Before showing off her certificate, Seun Kuti claimed that his brother, Burna Boy, and King Sunny Ade were the only Nigerians previously nominated for the award.
